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Olson Named Family Research Fellow

Alix Olson, PhD candidate in Political Science, has been awarded a 2013-2014 Center for Research on Families Family Research Fellowship. As a fellow, Olson will continue work on "queer(y)ing permenant partnership." 

According to Olson, the topic, which began as her Comprehensive Exam in political theory, explores "the ways in which heteronormative, racialized, and gendered immigration policies have structured considerations of legitimate kinship." The work situates kinship in light of a range of large policies including the Permanent Partners Bill, the Defense of Marriage Act, and various Homeland Security policies. Her work will result in new theories and approaches to understanding family, kinship, belonging, and membership.

Olson, who recently received a Graduate Certificate in Advanced Feminist Studies, will benefit from the mentoring and professional guidance of Political Science Professor Barbara Cruikshank throughout the fellowship.

The fellowship is a competitive program organized by the UMass Center for Research on Families and carries a $10,000 stipend.

News Type: 

  • Student News