About

Scholar • Educator • Advocate

I am a legal and historical sociologist, educator, and advocate whose work spans law and society, gender studies, critical race studies, and Indigenous studies. Across my research, teaching, and public scholarship, I examine questions of power, inequality, institutional change, and collective action, with particular attention to the ways law shapes and is shaped by social and political conflict.

With over a decade of experience as an instructor of record at the university level, I have taught courses across sociology, ethnic studies, gender studies, and other interdisciplinary fields. My teaching is centered on creating rigorous and supportive learning environments that help students strengthen their analytical skills, gain confidence as thinkers and researchers, and translate their education into meaningful academic and professional pathways.

My public scholarship and advocacy reflect my commitment to making research accessible beyond the university and to bringing academic knowledge into conversation with broader audiences. Prior to my career in academia, I served as a caseworker for the Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California, providing support services for Native children and families.

Stanford University Department of Sociology address: 450 Jane Stanford Way, Building 120, Room 160, Stanford, California 94305-2047; amylcass@stanford.edu

Education

Ph.D. Sociology

Minor: Feminist, Gender, and Sexuality Studies

Stanford University

Expected 2027

M.A. Sociology

Stanford University

2019

M.A. Ethnic Studies

San Francisco State University

2011

B.A. American Studies

University of California, Santa Cruz

2006

Academic Appointments

Stanford University

Appointed Lecturer

Sociology

Winter–Spring 2027

California State University, Stanislaus

Lecturer

Gender Studies; Ethnic Studies

2012–present

San Francisco State University

Lecturer

Ethnic Studies; American Indian Studies

2011–present

Laney College

Lecturer

Ethnic Studies; Native American Studies

2012–2018

Selected Teaching Certifications

Quality Learning and Teaching, SFSU 2019

Community College Teaching, CSU Dominguez Hills 2011