Elizabeth A. Armstrong

Elizabeth A. Armstrong is the Sherry B. Ortner Collegiate Professor of Sociology at the University of Michigan. She holds affiliations with the Department of Sociology, Organizational Studies, Women’s and Gender Studies, and multiple research centers including the Center for the Study of Higher and Postsecondary Education. Her research focuses on social inequality, gender, sexuality, race, and class, with a particular emphasis on higher education institutions and organizational dynamics.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Sociology, University of California, Berkeley (1998)
• B.A. in Sociology and Computer Science, University of Michigan (1988)

Research Interests: Armstrong examines how systems of inequality are reproduced and transformed, particularly through the lens of sexuality and higher education. She has conducted groundbreaking work on university responses to sexual misconduct, supported by an NSF-funded project and collaborations with scholars like Sandy Levitsky. Her interdisciplinary approach integrates cultural sociology and organizational theory to analyze policy, institutional practices, and social justice.

Awards & Recognition:

• 2019 Andrew Carnegie Fellowship ($200K for research on campus sexual assault)
• 2018–2019 CASBS Fellowship at Stanford University
• 2017 Faculty Recognition Award (University of Michigan)

Professional Contributions: Armstrong has held visiting positions at Harvard University (2007–2008) and Stanford University (2018–2019). She teaches advanced courses such as SOC 847: Research Workshop in Gender and Sexuality. Her work informs policy debates on gender-based violence, educational equity, and organizational accountability.

Labs & Affiliations: Active in the Poverty Solutions initiative, Injury Prevention Center, and the Center for Inequality Dynamics, Armstrong collaborates across disciplines to address systemic inequities. Her research bridges academic inquiry with real-world impact, advocating for safer and more inclusive educational environments.