Debbie Kasper is an environmental sociologist with specialties in sociological theory, community and culture formation, and social change. She teaches a wide variety of courses at Hiram College in environmental studies and sociology (including Human Settlements, Community, Sociology of Food, Environmental Sociology, Permaculture, and more) in which students explore and apply what they’re learning through real life experiences on and off campus. Kasper also coordinates the annual Bissell Symposium as the Howard S. Bissell chair of the liberal arts.

In addition to teaching, Kasper puts her eclectic interests to work in other ways at the College, such as helping coordinate sustainability efforts and collaborating with campus leaders to enhance the ecological and social health of the Hiram community.

Education

• Ph.D., Sociology with Doctoral Minor in Social Thought Program, The Pennsylvania State University
• M.A., Sociology, The Pennsylvania State University
• B.A., Sociology, St. Norbert College

Research Interests

• Environmental sociology
• Social change
• Community
• Resilience

Selected Publications

• Beyond the Knowledge Crisis: A Synthesis Framework for Sociology-Environmental Studies and Guide to Social Change https://www.palgrave.com/us/book/9783030483692
• “Re-Conceptualizing (Environmental) Sociology.” Environmental Sociology 2(3): 1-11. 2016.
• “Redefining Community in the Ecovillage.” Human Ecology Review. 15:12-24. 2008.

Fun Facts

• Kasper is certified in permaculture design (twice!) and meditation instruction.