Susan Wortmann

Susan Wortmann is a Professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at Nebraska Wesleyan University (NWU). She holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and teaches a wide range of courses including Introduction to Sociology, Qualitative Research Methods, Medical Sociology, and Social Theory. Her work bridges academic scholarship with community-based action, focusing on gender, religion, health, and social justice.

Education:

• Ph.D., Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (2003)
• M.A., Sociology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln (1999)
• B.S., English, Summa Cum Laude, Wayne State College (1996)

Susan Wortmann's research interests are deeply rooted in classical sociological theory and its application to contemporary social issues. She specializes in gender studies, religion, and health, with a strong emphasis on qualitative methods and applied sociology. Her work often involves community collaboration, particularly in areas such as refugee and immigrant mental health, campus sexual assault prevention, and services for at-risk youth. She integrates sociological theory and methods into real-world problem solving, promoting social change through evaluation and grant writing.

While specific journal articles are not listed, her scholarly output includes influential textbooks such as Discover Sociology (co-authored with Daina Eglitis) and Society: A User’s Guide. Her publications also extend to entries in the Encyclopedia of Sociology and the Encyclopedia of Consumer Culture, indicating broad disciplinary engagement. The thematic focus of her work centers on meaning-making, religious participation, and social inequality, with consistent attention to marginalized populations and community resilience.

Scientific and Community Awards:

• NWU Faculty Scholarship award (2022)
• Alice Paul Lifetime Achievement Award (2017)
• Advocate for Diversity Award (2018)
• Exemplary Teaching Award (2015)
• Teaching Council Recognition (2009)
• Faculty Mentoring Award (2009)

Dr. Wortmann is actively involved in mentoring students and advising the Sociology/Anthropology Club and Global Service Learning at NWU. She has coordinated the former Gender Advocacy Place (now the Intersectionality Center) and has served on the NWU Board of Governors (2020–2022). Her grant-writing expertise has supported numerous community initiatives focused on domestic violence, homelessness, and sexual assault. As a member of the American Evaluation Association, she has served as an evaluator for multiple community programs, demonstrating a sustained commitment to public sociology and civic engagement.

She has led experiential learning trips with students to Turkey, South Dakota’s Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, and Cuba, emphasizing trust, mutual understanding, and resilience. These immersive experiences reflect her pedagogical philosophy that education extends beyond the classroom into real-world contexts.