Jenifer Kunz

Jenifer Kunz serves as Professor of Sociology and Sociology Program Director at West Texas A&M University within the Terry B. Rogers College of Education and Social Sciences. She has been a core faculty member since 1993, teaching foundational courses across the sociology curriculum while directing the sociology program.

Education

• B.S. in Spanish and Sociology from Brigham Young University
• M.S. in Sociology from Brigham Young University
• Ph.D. in Sociology (emphasis: family and stratification) from Brigham Young University

Research Focus

Dr. Kunz's scholarship centers on family dynamics and social stratification, with particular expertise in organizational structures and the longitudinal impacts of divorce on children. Her work bridges theoretical frameworks in gender studies and racial/ethnic inequality, often examining how institutional contexts shape individual life outcomes. Contemporary family structures and methodological approaches in social research form recurring themes across her publications.

Teaching and Professional Service

She teaches Introduction to Sociology, Racial and Ethnic Minorities, Contemporary Families, Sociology of Gender, and advanced methodology courses while serving on both honors and graduate faculties. An internationally recognized educator, she has held visiting professorships at the University of Calgary and maintains active memberships in national sociological associations. Her community engagement includes five years as co-facilitator of the Pantex Plant Citizens' Advisory Board.

Awards and Recognition

• Multiple institutional teaching excellence awards
• International Visiting Professor designation at University of Calgary

Academic Leadership

Dr. Kunz mentors students through research collaborations and serves as consultant for governmental agencies. Her program direction responsibilities include curriculum development and student advising within the sociology track, with ongoing scholarship reflected in book publications and conference presentations across sociological subfields.