Shonna Trinch

Shonna Trinch is a Professor in the Department of Anthropology at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, part of the City University of New York (CUNY). Her expertise spans Sociolinguistics, Linguistic Anthropology, and Forensic Linguistics, with a focus on gentrification, gender-related violence, and Spanish-English bilingualism.

• Education: PhD (1999) and MA (1995) in Spanish Linguistics, University of Pittsburgh; Graduate Certificate in Latin American Studies (1996); BA (1990) from Pennsylvania State University.

Her research examines how language shapes urban spaces through storefront signs in Brooklyn’s gentrification processes and analyzes narratives of domestic violence and sexualized assault within legal and sociolegal institutions. She co-founded the student-led theater program Seeing Rape, which addresses campus rape through performance.

Recent publications explore themes like Language and Place, Urban Redevelopment, and Bilingualism in Legal Systems, reflecting her interdisciplinary approach combining sociolinguistics, political anthropology, and gender studies.

• Scientific Awards: CUNY Fine and Performing Arts Course Design Award (2017).

Trinch’s work has also secured grants from the National Science Foundation (2010-2012) and funding from the New York City Council, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer’s office, and John Jay College’s Student Council. Her program Seeing Rape has staged over 75 student-written plays, reaching 20,000+ attendees.