Dr. Jessica L. Burke

Professor of Sociology
Francis Marion University, South Carolina, USA

Dr. Jessica L. Burke is a highly respected scholar and Professor of Sociology at Francis Marion University, where she has been a key contributor to both academic research and community engagement. Her work centers around critical social issues, with a primary research focus on domestic violence and abuse, public and mental health, and the role of community outreach programs in addressing these challenges.

With a Ph.D. in Sociology and a deep passion for interdisciplinary research, Dr. Burke has built an impressive body of scholarly work that explores the complex intersections of violence, health, and societal structure. Her research brings together theoretical frameworks and practical applications, offering both insight and actionable knowledge for addressing some of society’s most pressing problems.

Dr. Burke's academic publications span several well-regarded peer-reviewed journals, including Sociological Imagination, Sociation, International Journal of Criminology and Sociology, Social Sciences, and Deviant Behavior. Her articles often examine how structural inequalities, trauma, and social policy interact in shaping experiences of abuse and access to care. She is especially recognized for her rigorous qualitative methodologies and her ability to amplify the lived experiences of vulnerable populations through her work.

In addition to her journal publications, Dr. Burke has authored numerous book chapters in edited volumes focused on health disparities, domestic abuse, and violence in social contexts. These contributions reflect her commitment to interdisciplinary scholarship and her efforts to inform both academic audiences and frontline practitioners.

Outside of her academic writing, Dr. Burke is actively involved in community-based research and advocacy projects, often collaborating with local organizations, healthcare providers, and service agencies. Her applied research initiatives aim to improve intervention strategies, raise public awareness, and contribute to the development of evidence-based programs.

At Francis Marion University, Dr. Burke is known as a dedicated educator and mentor. She teaches courses in sociology, criminology, and health disparities, and is committed to fostering critical thinking and social responsibility among her students.

Her scholarly integrity, commitment to social justice, and consistent contributions to the field make her a valued voice in both academia and the wider community. Dr. Jessica L. Burke continues to inspire through her work at the intersection of research, teaching, and real-world impact.