معرفی
Robert D. Francis is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Whitworth University since 2019. He holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from Johns Hopkins University (2019), an M.A. in Social Science from the University of Chicago (2006), and a B.A. in Sociology/Biblical and Theological Studies from Wheaton College (1999). His research focuses on poverty and inequality, work and occupations, working-class dynamics, rural sociology, and social policy. He is a co-editor of special issues in Teaching Sociology and has been recognized with honors like the Annie E. Casey Foundation Rural Poverty Research Fellowship and Rural Sociological Society awards. Francis teaches courses including Social Stratification, Rural Sociology, and Political Sociology. His work explores labor force participation trends among working-class men, the intersection of class and education, and policy responses to socioeconomic disparities. Francis also serves on the editorial board of Teaching Sociology and is involved in community initiatives like the Haystack Heights Cohousing Community.
Research interests include qualitative methods applied to rural poverty, first-generation academic experiences, and policy solutions for marginalized groups. His media engagements include contributions to The Atlantic and The New York Times. Grant-funded projects include studies on labor precarity and academic inequities. Francis's advocacy background includes seven years with faith-based organizations addressing systemic issues.
