Carla Edith Gonzales Jimena was a recipient of the Senator William J. Fulbright scholarship and is currently working on her dissertation at Portland State University to finish her doctorate degree in Sociology. Her academic journey is grounded in the disciplines of sociology, human ecology, development management, policy and sustainability. Her current research endeavor is in the realm of sociology of law focusing on the discourse of drugs in society. Her curiosity centers on analyzing human ecosystems and how the dynamics of institutions and organizations interplay with nature, culture and livelihoods. Carla has led various public service, extension and research projects focusing on community and social justice work. Carla has published articles, agency reports and book chapters in various aspects of community life.
Prior to joining USP, Carla has taught various courses in academia for many years in her capacity as an instructor, adjunct faculty , and as a University Studies Graduate Student mentor. She has been actively involved as a research proponent and project team member both in the Greater Portland, Oregon, USA and overseas particularly in the Philippines and the South East Asia region. Carla is a believer of authentic learning and community engaged scholarship. On a personal note, Carla is a simple person who loves nature walks, dancing, camping, community service and social networking. She has served as Board Secretary of the Fulbright Oregon Chapter and District officer and Past President of a local rotary club. She is also a member of the Fulbright Association based in Washington DC, the American Sociological Association (ASA), Pacific Sociological Association (PSA) , the Alpha Kappa Delta International Honor Society of Sociology, International Society for Human Ecology and Rotary International.