Nancy Rios-Contreras

Dr. Nancy Rios-Contreras is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Chapman University, affiliated with the Wilkinson College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. Her research focuses on migration, gender studies, and border dynamics, with particular expertise in Central American migrant caravans and women's experiences in transit. She maintains an active research agenda and teaches courses related to her specialized areas within the sociology department.

Dr. Rios-Contreras' educational background includes:

• Bachelor of Arts from California Lutheran University
• Bachelor of Science from California Lutheran University
• Master of Criminal Justice from University of Colorado Denver
• Ph.D. from University of Delaware

Her research interests center on migration studies with a feminist perspective, examining how gender shapes migration experiences, particularly for women in Central American caravans traveling through Mexico to the U.S. border. She investigates themes of gender-based violence, border enforcement practices, and the social dynamics within migrant communities. Her work often employs qualitative methodologies including interviews and field observations to capture the lived experiences of migrants, with special attention to how women navigate and resist state violence during transit.

Dr. Rios-Contreras' scholarly work demonstrates a consistent focus on migration dynamics, particularly examining Central American caravans, gender dimensions of border crossing, and the intersection of migration with digital technologies. Her publications span multiple formats including academic articles, photo essays, and book chapters, reflecting an interdisciplinary approach that bridges sociology, gender studies, and visual anthropology. Recent work shows increasing attention to pandemic impacts on migration and the role of social media in contemporary migration experiences.

Dr. Rios-Contreras has received research support from both the University of Delaware and Chapman University, as acknowledged in her publications. While specific grant amounts aren't detailed in the provided information, her collaborative research approach is evident through co-authored works with community members and other scholars. Her work with Mr. Hernández Mateo demonstrates a commitment to participatory research methods that incorporate migrant perspectives directly into the research process.

Dr. Rios-Contreras appears to be actively involved in research teams focused on migration studies, particularly collaborating with individuals who have lived migration experiences. Her work with the Disaster Research Center at the University of Delaware indicates participation in established research networks. She also engages with community-based organizations working with migrants in Tijuana, suggesting field-based research partnerships that extend beyond traditional academic settings.