Annette D'Onofrio

Professor recognized for excellence in the field of linguistics, Annette D'Onofrio serves as an Associate Professor in the Linguistics Department at Northwestern University. Her scholarly pursuits are deeply rooted in the intricate interplay between sociolinguistics, social theory, speech perception, and psycholinguistics. Through her research, she seeks to unravel the complexities of language variation and change, focusing particularly on how social meaning is constructed and perceived through speech. Prof. D'Onofrio employs a methodological approach centered on the analysis of phonetic variables, which allows her to explore the nuanced ways in which language and society influence each other. Her work contributes significantly to our understanding of how individuals perceive and produce speech in varying social contexts, shedding light on the dynamic nature of language as a social tool. Having completed her PhD in Linguistics at Stanford University in 2016, Prof. D'Onofrio has established herself as a leading voice in her field. Her academic journey began with a BA in Linguistics from the University of Pennsylvania in 2010, where she first developed her passion for the study of language and its social implications. In addition to her teaching and research responsibilities, Prof. D'Onofrio is an active member of the Institute for Policy Research (IPR), where she collaborates with fellow scholars to address pressing social issues through interdisciplinary research. Her involvement with the IPR underscores her commitment to applying linguistic insights to broader societal challenges, bridging the gap between theoretical research and practical application. Prof. D'Onofrio's contributions to the field have been recognized through various awards and publications, reflecting her dedication to advancing our understanding of language as a fundamental aspect of human interaction. Her work continues to inspire students and colleagues alike, fostering a deeper appreciation for the role of language in shaping social realities.