Yuki Kato

Yuki Kato is an Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology at Georgetown University. Her research focuses on urban sociology, food justice, environmental justice, and gentrification. She earned her Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of California, Irvine, and holds degrees from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Her work examines urban agriculture's role in post-disaster recovery and gentrification dynamics, with a focus on marginalized communities. She has published widely in journals like *Urban Studies* and *City & Community*, and her book *Gardens of Hope* (2025) explores urban farming in post-Katrina New Orleans.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Sociology, University of California, Irvine (2007)
• M.A. in Sociology, University of California, Irvine
• B.A. in Sociology and Communication, University of Massachusetts Amherst

Research Interests: Urban agriculture, food systems, social stratification, gentrification, and symbolic interaction. She investigates how marginalized communities navigate environmental and food justice through grassroots initiatives like urban farming and social entrepreneurship.

Awards:

• 2021: Honorable Mention, Association for the Study of Food and Society Edited Book Award (for *A Recipe for Gentrification*)

Teaching & Mentoring: Teaches courses on food justice, environmental sociology, and research methods. Advises students in projects related to urban sociology and community-based learning. Her courses emphasize practical engagement with local food justice initiatives.

Key Projects: Current research explores historical erasure of BIPOC urban farming practices and the role of social entrepreneurs in gentrifying cities. She collaborates with the DC Food Policy Council on civic engagement efforts.