Sonya Grier

Professor Sonya Grier is an interdisciplinary scholar at American University with expertise spanning private, government, and non-profit sectors. She holds a Ph.D. in Marketing (minor in Social Psychology) and an MBA from Northwestern University. Her professional experience includes roles at the Federal Trade Commission, market research, brand management, and consulting.

Grier's research focuses on marketplace dynamics related to race, consumer well-being, and social justice. Key areas include:

• Race in commercial settings and health equity
• Targeted marketing and diversity initiatives
• Social marketing for community impact
• Interdisciplinary approaches using film and photography

Her recent publications (2019-2020) consistently explore racial equity in marketing, health disparities during crises, diversity education, and inclusive research methodologies, demonstrating a strong focus on systemic change in marketplace interactions.

Grier co-founded the Race in the Marketplace (RIM) Research Network to advance cross-disciplinary understanding of race across market domains. She serves on editorial boards for:

• Journal of Public Policy and Marketing
• Journal of Consumer Affairs
• Advertising and Society Quarterly

Previously, she advised the CDC's National Center for Health Marketing, African American Obesity Research Collaborative Network, and Institute of Medicine Food Forum.