Valerie Gunter

Dr. Valerie Gunter is an Associate Professor in the Department of School Psychology, Special Education, and Sociology at Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), within the College of Education and Human Services. Her academic background includes a PhD in Sociology from Michigan State University, an MS from Texas A&M University, and a BA from Southwestern Oklahoma State University. She teaches core undergraduate and graduate theory courses, including Sociological Theory, Qualitative Research Methods, and Contemporary Social and Organizational Theory.

Her research focuses on Social Theory, Scholarly Writing, Environment and Society, Political Sociology, and Diversity and Inclusion. She has developed innovative courses like SOC 300: Skills for Using Sociology in Your Career and Community, emphasizing practical applications of sociology. Her recent work includes a dissertation proposal workbook under review by Sage Publications, exploring themes like generalized trust and placed-based identity, alongside ongoing interests in social constructionist approaches to human-environment systems.

Gunter serves on the University-Wide Graduate Curriculum Committee and the Department's Undergraduate Education Committee. She has pioneered new teaching techniques, such as integrating media analysis and historical archives in qualitative research. Her scholarship spans environmental controversies, disaster recovery, and media representation of scientific issues, reflecting a commitment to bridging theoretical frameworks with real-world applications.