Lilya Shienko, Ph.D., is an Adjunct Professor at Adler University's Vancouver campus, teaching in the Industrial and Organizational Psychology & Psychology in Health and Wellness programs. She holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from Adler University and a B.S. in Psychology from MacEwan University. Her teaching philosophy emphasizes student-centered learning, critical thinking, and ethical leadership, aligning with Adler’s social justice mission. Dr. Shienko’s research focuses on the intersection of social media, organizational behavior, and mental health. Key areas include preventing vicarious trauma from social media exposure, strategies for online community-building, and mindfulness integration in therapy. She has presented at conferences such as the North American Society of Adlerian Psychology and the American Psychosomatic Society. Her academic achievements include multiple scholarships and a prestigious PhD Fellowship at the CMM Institute. She currently serves as Sessional Faculty and Subject Lead at University Canada West and previously worked as a Graduate Research Assistant and Psychological Report Writer.
Robert H. Garot is an Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology at John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY) and a member of the Graduate Center Sociology Department. He holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from UCLA (2003), along with prior degrees from the same university. His research focuses on gang identity, criminology, and the sociological implications of bureaucracy and colonialism. Notable works include Who You Claim: Performing Gang Identity in School and on the Streets (2010), which received an Honorable Mention for the Robert E. Park Award. Garot’s fieldwork includes studies on immigration and law in Tuscany and collaborations with organizations like the Alternatives to Violence Project. He teaches courses such as Crimmigration, Environmental Sociology, and the Sociology of Mental Illness. His awards include the Mellon Mid-Career Fellowship and recognition from the American Sociological Association. His scholarly output spans articles on gang behavior, colonialism’s impact on fieldwork, and interdisciplinary approaches to bureaucracy. Garot’s work bridges theoretical insights with empirical research, emphasizing ethnographic methods and critical sociological analysis.
Tricia M. Kress is a Professor in the Educational Leadership for Diverse Learning Communities Ed.D. program at Molloy College. She holds a Ph.D. in Urban Education from the City University of New York Graduate Center (2006) with expertise in critical pedagogy, curriculum design for diverse learners, and socio-cultural theories of education. Her research integrates dialogic methods and young adult fiction into transformative learning, with recent collaborations at Tiradentes University in Brazil. Education: Ph.D. in Urban Education (with doctoral certificate in Interactive Technology and Pedagogy), City University of New York Graduate Center, 2006 Research focuses on critical pedagogy in secondary education and doctoral studies, with emphasis on social justice, autoethnography, and resisting neoliberal educational policies. Recent work critiques institutional structures and explores utopian-dystopian tensions in academia. Her publications include Paulo Freire’s Intellectual Roots (2013), awarded the 2014 Society of Professors of Education Book Award. She co-edits two book series on critical education and serves as Chair of the Paulo Freire SIG for AERA. Awards include induction into the Professors of Curriculum Honorary Society. Advising emphasizes doctoral student support through her courses on curriculum theory, ethical leadership, and dissertation preparation. She collaborates internationally to develop praxis-oriented research frameworks.
Susan Crawford Sullivan is a Professor of Sociology at the College of the Holy Cross, serving as Montserrat Cluster Director (Divine). Her academic career includes a Master in Public Affairs from Princeton University (1996) and a Ph.D. in Sociology from Harvard University (2005). She previously held a visiting assistant professorship and research associate role at Harvard Divinity School (2009-2010). Her research focuses on religion’s role in addressing poverty, family dynamics, and community-based learning, particularly within Catholic social teaching frameworks. Key works include Living Faith: Everyday Religion and Mothers in Poverty (2011)—winner of two distinguished book awards—and A Vision of Justice: Engaging Catholic Social Teaching on the College Campus (2014), which explores institutional mission integration. Dr. Sullivan teaches courses such as Sociology of Religion, Catholic Thought and Social Action, and Families and Societies. Her recent publications (2024) examine global monotheistic responses to poverty and U.S. religious philanthropy. Awards include the 2012 ASA Sociology of Religion Distinguished Book Award and a 2015 publishing excellence finalist designation. Her work bridges faith-based initiatives with social policy, emphasizing marginalized populations such as low-income mothers, individuals with Alzheimer’s, and youth with autism. Sullivan collaborates across disciplines to advance justice-oriented education and community engagement.
Dr Richard Kapend is a Senior Lecturer in Criminology at the University of Winchester, based in the Department of Policing, Criminology and Forensic within the Faculty of Law, Crime and Justice. His research focuses on criminological issues, criminal justice systems, and population dynamics in post-conflict settings. He holds a Ph.D. in Social Statistics, MSc in Demography, and BSc in Criminology and Psychological Studies from the University of Southampton. His work emphasizes quantitative methodologies, particularly in reconstructing missing data for conflict and criminal justice analysis. Richard’s research projects include exploring links between migration and criminal justice, prison population dynamics in the DRC, under-five mortality in conflict zones, and applying statistical techniques to socio-demographic criminal justice issues. Notable projects include an exploratory study on private policing beyond traditional law enforcement and analyzing the demographic consequences of armed conflict in the DRC. His articles span cybercrime victimology, conflict demographics, and criminological theory applications. Supervised students have successfully completed dissertations and theses across undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Richard advocates for enhancing quantitative data culture in criminal justice institutions, particularly in post-conflict regions.
Elaine Jackson is a Lecturer at the School of Business and Creative Industries, focusing on legal and psychological aspects of jury decision-making. Her research examines verdict systems, particularly Scotland's unique 'not proven' verdict, and their impact on juror behavior through quantitative methods. She collaborates internationally on topics like legal procedure reform and mock trial analyses. Her research interests span criminal justice, legal studies, and forensic psychology. Key themes include juror decision processes, verdict system efficacy, and potential legal system improvements. She employs meta-analytical techniques to synthesize findings across studies. Her work has been widely disseminated in peer-reviewed journals such as Psychiatry, Psychology and Law and Behavioral Sciences and the Law , with articles gaining attention from news media and academic platforms like Mendeley and X. Notable outputs include studies on Scottish verdict alternatives and their societal implications.
Dr. Azzie Forbes serves as a Doctoral Lecturer and Director of the BSSW Social Work Practicum Program at York College, CUNY. She holds a DSW from Capella University (2022), MSW from Case Western Reserve University (2016), and BS from Wartburg College (2010). Her work focuses on resiliency in young adults, social-emotional counseling, and curriculum development for non-profits. She previously directed two alternative high schools in Queens, NY, and now oversees practicum education for social work students. Education: DSW in Social Work (Capella University, 2022) MSW in Social Work (Case Western Reserve University, 2016) BS in Social Work (Wartburg College, 2010) Her research emphasizes resiliency frameworks for young adults aged 18–21, integrating her Resiliency Plan methodology. She has developed curricula for youth programs and led workshops on de-escalation, professional boundaries, and inclusive practices across NYC organizations. In 2023, she presented Simulation as a Tool for Inclusivity at a CUNY conference and co-authored a chapter on Black women’s leadership in social work (expected 2025). Awards include the CUNY Career Success Fellowship (2023) and the Mannie Holmes Diversity Award (2010). Dr. Forbes supervises BSW practicums, chairs the Practicum Advisory Board, and collaborates on grants like the College Access for All initiative (2019). She also serves on York’s Behavioral Intervention Team and the International Black Women’s Congress.
Marina Morgenshtern is an Associate Professor and Director at Trent University's Durham GTA campus in Oshawa, Ontario. She holds a PhD in Social Work from Wilfrid Laurier University (2013), an MSW from Tel-Aviv University (2002), and a BSW from Tel-Aviv University (1994). Her work bridges academia, practice, and advocacy with a focus on marginalized populations. Roles : Director of Social Work Programs, Trent University; Faculty member since 2013 Affiliations : Durham GTA Campus, Trent University; active in Canadian and international social work networks Her research explores immigrant integration, anti-oppressive social work, and decolonizing practice. Key areas include feminist intersectionality, Indigenous rights, and labor market barriers for racialized immigrants. She has published over 30 peer-reviewed articles and co-authored the textbook Re-Search Methods in Social Work (2024). Marina has secured $120,000+ in grants, including SSHRC and Region of Durham funding. Her work emphasizes knowledge mobilization through photovoice projects and community partnerships. Awards include multiple Symons Award nominations and a 2020 Trent Merit Award for Service. Grants : SSHRC Exchange Grants (2023, 2018), Region of Durham Research Grant (2021), Trent Dean’s Research Award (2023) Community Engagement : Photovoice exhibits on immigrant employment challenges; workshops addressing newcomer hazing in labor markets She has presented globally at conferences like the European Conference on Social Work Education and the International Consortium for Social Development. Her teaching focuses on contextualized social work education, blending theory with community-based practice.
Dr. Heather Looy is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at The King's University. Her research integrates biopsychology, ethics, and theology to explore human sexuality, food attitudes, and embodiment. She holds a PhD from McMaster University (1992), an MA from Queen's University (1988), and a BA (Honours) from Queen's University (1986). Her work examines topics such as disgust and moral judgment in food choices (e.g., insect consumption), gender identity, and the role of faith in decisions about reproductive technology. She employs both quantitative and qualitative methods, emphasizing interdisciplinary dialogue between science and religion. Publications highlight her focus on sustainable food systems, theological anthropology, and evolutionary psychology. She actively involves students in research and advocates for ethical engagement with biopsychological findings. Her personal interests include ecopsychology, science fiction, and outdoor activities, which she integrates into teaching examples. No formal grants or awards are listed, though her work bridges academic and faith communities. She collaborates with colleagues on projects addressing creation care and human-nature relationships.
Karen Cooper is a Lecturer in Criminology and Criminal Justice at the School of Education and Social Sciences, University of the West of Scotland (UWS). She holds a DPhil in Criminology from the University of Oxford and has held roles as a Research Fellow at the University of Edinburgh (2013–2021) and Research Analyst at the Scottish Government’s Justice Analytical Services (2008–2013). Her research focuses on vulnerable youth populations, particularly exploring how online environments impact relationships, mental health, and risk behaviors. She employs mixed-methods approaches to study topics such as sexting, child sexual exploitation, and youth justice. Key affiliations include: UWS: Lecturer (2022–present), Research Fellow (2020–2022) University of Edinburgh: Research Fellow (2013–2021) Scottish Government: Research Analyst (2008–2013) Research interests emphasize: Risk and coercion among vulnerable youth Social media’s role in mental health and wellbeing Co-production of resources with stakeholders Evaluation of interventions targeting youth violence Current projects with RAND Europe address police use of out-of-court disposals and the Alternative Provision Specialist Taskforce (APST), aiming to reduce youth violence. Her work aligns with UN SDGs related to justice, education, and mental health. Key collaborations include EU-funded SPIRTO (UK/Sweden/Germany) and projects in South Korea (British Council grant). She has published widely on child sexual exploitation, online safety, and youth engagement strategies.
Iker Zirion is a Professor of Public International Law at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU) and a researcher at Hegoa, the Institute for Development and International Cooperation Studies. He is affiliated with the Department of Public Law and Historical-Legal Sciences and of Political Thought History. His research focuses on peacebuilding, gender analysis in conflict zones, post-conflict societies, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. He holds a PhD in International Studies and has been a member of Hegoa’s 'feminism and conflict' research group. Education: PhD in International Studies Research Interests: Peacebuilding and gender dynamics Post-conflict contexts and transitional justice Critical approaches to liberal peace Violence against women in armed conflicts Gender and international law Masculinity studies in humanitarian action Recent Projects: Strengthening women defenders of truth, justice, and reparation (2022) Analysis of food insecurity in armed conflicts (2020) Psychosocial care for women human rights defenders in Kivu (2022) Key Themes in Publications: His work critiques liberal peace paradigms, examines gender mainstreaming in DDR programs, and analyzes feminist approaches to transitional justice. He emphasizes the intersection of masculinity, humanitarian action, and conflict resolution. He has supervised doctoral theses on peacebuilding policies in the DRC and contributed to international debates on UN Security Council Resolution 1325 implementation. His academic contributions bridge critical legal theory with practical policy analysis in conflict-affected regions.
Iker Etxano is a Professor at the University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), affiliated with the Department of Applied Economics I within the Faculty of Social Sciences and Communication. His research focuses on sustainability transitions, ecological economics, public policies, and multi-criteria analysis. He holds a Licenciado in Economics, an MSc from Newcastle University (2006), and a PhD in Development Studies from UPV/EHU (2013). He also teaches in postgraduate programs on sustainability and ecological economics. His work includes evaluating environmental policies, particularly protected natural spaces, and developing methodologies for sustainability assessment. He is a member of the EKOPOL research group and associated with Hegoa (Institute for Development and International Cooperation Studies). Notable projects include Pensamientos críticos sobre el desarrollo (2018) and studies on the environmental and social footprint of UPV/EHU. Key research themes include integrating capabilities theory, ecosystem services, and strong sustainability frameworks. His contributions address conflicts in rural planning, payment for ecosystem services, and the revival of traditional commons governance. He has published extensively on sustainability science, policy analysis, and participatory approaches to conservation.
Dr. Helen Wadham is a Reader in Sustainability and Doctoral College Faculty Head (Business & Law) at Manchester Metropolitan University's Business School. Her research focuses on collaboration across species, sectors, and communities, particularly in human-animal relations within sustainability contexts. She leads projects like the BA/Leverhulme Trust-funded 'Racehorses in Transition' and organizes international seminars on interspecies decent work. She is a Fellow of the Royal Anthropological Institute and a member of ABIS and EGOS. Her teaching spans 15+ years, emphasizing sustainability and research methods. She supervises PhD students researching interspecies care work and equine community wellbeing. Notable publications include analyses of Mexican equestrian culture, sustainable tourism, and transformative education models. Academic contributions include co-developing networks on interspecies relations in Latin American tourism and editing special issues on rural landscapes. Her work bridges theory and practice, advocating for ethical multispecies collaboration in global challenges.
Prof. Bram Buscher is a Professor and Chair in the Sociology of Development and Change at Wageningen University, with a visiting position at the University of Johannesburg. His research focuses on the intersections of capitalism, environmental governance, and biodiversity conservation, particularly in Southern Africa. He has held prestigious grants like NWO Veni and Vidi, and authored influential books including The Conservation Revolution (2020) and The Truth about Nature (2021). His work critiques neoliberal conservation models and advocates for radical alternatives like 'convivial conservation.' Education: PhD (cum laude) in Political Science/Anthropology from VU Amsterdam (2009), with earlier studies in Political Science and Journalism. Research: Explores political ecology, neoliberalism, and the socio-economic impacts of conservation policies. Key themes include platform capitalism's role in environmental advocacy, militarization of conservation, and historical injustices in wildlife management. Awards: NWO grants, Oak Foundation support, and recognition for transformative environmental scholarship. Publications: Over 90 peer-reviewed articles, including landmark critiques of biodiversity frameworks and market-based conservation. Grants: Led projects like the Belmont Forum's 'Convivial Conservation' initiative, examining grassroots conservation models. Labs/Teams: Active in the 'Sociology of Development and Change' group and editorial boards of Conservation & Society and Geoforum . Buscher's recent work addresses global biodiversity treaties, the UN's '30×30' initiative, and the militarization of conservation, arguing for systemic shifts beyond neoliberal frameworks.
Dr. Barbara Grabher is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Brighton's School of Business and Law, serving as Course Leader for BSc International Event Management and International Tourism Management programmes. She is an active member of the Tourism, Inclusion, Events and Society Research Excellence Group and holds the role of University of Brighton Early Career Ambassador. Her educational background includes: PhD in Gendering Cities of Culture from University of Hull (2020) PhD in Gendering Cities of Culture from University of Oviedo (2020) MA in Mapping Memories of Mobility from Utrecht University (2015) BA from University of Vienna (2013) Dr. Grabher's research centers on Critical Event Studies, examining how events function as 'tools for meaning making' in negotiating socio-political and cultural values. Her work critically analyzes mega-events like the UK City of Culture, European Capital of Culture, and Eurovision Song Contest through interdisciplinary lenses combining anthropology, gender studies, and environmental humanities. She investigates urban/regional regeneration processes, with particular focus on LGBTQ+ inclusion, gender equality, and Anthropocene-related human-environmental relationships in event contexts. Her publication trajectory reveals consistent thematic focus on event-based regeneration and value negotiations, with increasing emphasis on the Anthropocene and European Capitals of Culture since 2021. The Salzkammergut European Capital of Culture 2024 serves as a recurring case study, while methodological approaches remain predominantly qualitative and ethnographic. Recent outputs demonstrate growing engagement with visual and creative research methods, particularly postcard-based audience studies. Dr. Grabher leads the ongoing 'Between Culture and Salt' project (2021-2024) examining Anthropocene concepts in Salzkammergut's regeneration process. Her supervisory approach emphasizes qualitative/ethnographic methods within urban/regional regeneration and Critical Event Studies frameworks. She actively contributes to academic discourse through conference presentations and professional engagements focused on event-based regeneration and cultural policy. She is affiliated with the Tourism, Inclusion, Events and Society Research Excellence Group, where she collaborates on interdisciplinary event and tourism research initiatives exploring social inclusion, sustainability, and cultural policy impacts.
