Karen Tejada-Peña

Dr. Karen Tejada-Peña excels in the field of sociology as an Associate Professor at the University of Hartford. With a robust educational foundation, she earned her PhD from the University at Albany and completed her undergraduate studies with a BA from UC Santa Barbara. Her academic journey has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of sociological concepts, which she passionately imparts to her students. At the University of Hartford, Dr. Tejada-Peña is responsible for teaching a diverse array of courses, including introductory sociology, ethnic studies, immigration, race, and criminal justice. Her dedication to education is evident in her commitment to fostering an engaging and inclusive learning environment. She takes great pleasure in working with students who are eager to explore the complexities of society and encourages them to think critically about the world around them. Dr. Tejada-Peña's research interests are deeply rooted in the exploration of criminal justice, qualitative methods, and the experiences of Central Americans in the United States. She is particularly interested in the dynamics of immigrant political mobilization and transnationalism, examining how these factors influence the lives of individuals and communities. Her work contributes to a broader understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by immigrants, and she is committed to advancing knowledge in these vital areas. Through her research and teaching, Dr. Tejada-Peña aims to inspire a new generation of sociologists who are equipped to address pressing social issues. Her dedication to her field and her students is unwavering, and she continues to make significant contributions to the academic community.