Karen Macke

Karen Macke (she/her) brings more than 15 years of experience in higher education to DavisConnects, including positions as an Assistant Professor of Sociology at Thomas College and a Faculty Fellow and Instructor of Sociology at Colby College, SUNY Empire State, and Syracuse University. Having worked with students in higher education for more than fifteen years, her approach to mentorship focuses on active listening, supporting student wellness, and valuing the perspectives students bring to the table through lived experience. As a Colby College alum (’00), she is deeply committed to advancing liberal arts education and promoting engaged and responsible citizenship among all its students.

Karen earned her M.A. and PhD in Sociology at Syracuse University with Certificates of Advanced Studies in Women’s and Gender Studies, Social Movements, and Conflict Resolution. Her research focused on the interconnections of religious participation, community engagement, and collective action within the changing landscape of LGBTQA activism.

Originally from New Jersey, her first job was working as a Summer Counselor for the Clifton Boys & Girls Club in Clifton, NJ.