Education

B.S. (Anthropology, Individual Major Natural Sciences, and

       Sociology), University of Massachusetts Boston

M.S. (Gerontology), University of Massachusetts Boston

Ph.D. (Gerontology), University of Massachusetts Boston

Research

Dr. Sullivan is an expert in Social Gerontology.  Her research interests include productive activities in aging; older workers; gender and aging; seniors and the internet; and family caregivers.  For her investigations of online senior communities, Dr. Sullivan examines their participation in social network websites and video blogs. 

Teaching

Since joining Marshall in 2005, Dr. Sullivan has taught Introductory to Sociology; Contemporary Issues and Social Problems; Sociology of Aging; Sociology of the Family; Sociology of Death and Dying; Sociology of Mass Media; a seminar on Gender and Aging; and Research Methods.  In 2008, she received the College of Liberal Arts' Outstanding Teacher Award. 

Service and Outreach

In addition to her teaching and research, Dr. Sullivan serves as the Director of Graduate Studies for the Department of Sociology.  In this role, she is currently revising the graduate curriculum and developing new 600-level courses, as well as modifying the policies and procedures of the program.  She also serves on the following university committees: Faculty Senate, University Functions Committee, Hedrick Award Committee, MU One Book Committee, and the Drinko Library Assessment Ad Hoc Committee.

Dr. Sullivan is a member of the American Society on Aging, the Appalachian Studies Association, and the Southern Gerontological Society. 

Contact Info

telephone: (304) 696-6394

e-mail: sullivd@marshall.edu