Education
2007 - Ph.D., Syracuse University, Sociology
2004 - Graduate Certificate, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, Syracuse University, Advanced Studies in Conflict Resolution - Social Movements and Strategies of Conflict
2003 - M.A., Syracuse University, Sociology
1998 - B.A., St. Norbert College, Psychology and Sociology
My research interests include: Peace, War and Conflict Studies; Social Movements and Social Change; Militarism; International Sociology; Community Based Research; Engaged Scholarship and the Scholarship of Teaching.
My dissertation focused on the social consequences of war in a post-war context. This research took me to Viet Nam where I spent time interviewing present day individuals affected by landmines and other unexploded ordinance and studying the work of a few non-governmental organizations addressing this problem.
I teach courses in research methods, social problems, social movements, social stratification, economy and society, and peace, conflict and war. I also teach and am current director of the interdisciplinary Peace & Justice major.
Originally from Wisconsin, after completing my undergraduate degree in both sociology and psychology I was an AmeriCorps*VISTA volunteer in the New York City Schools working with a non-for-profit organization teaching students the value of philanthropy and service in their communities. I continue to strive to emphasize the importance of "giving back" in my students at Saint Anselm College by offering service learning in my courses and participating in two Spring Break Alternative trips in the last four years (Costs Rica '08 & Honduras '09).
In the spring of 2009, Sara received the Presidents' Good Steward Award from Campus Compact NH for her dedication to bridging the gap between the college and community by promoting and encouraging active engagement in her students.