Assistant Professor

College

College of the Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences

Department

Sociology

Dr. Della J. Winters is joining the Department of Sociology, Gerontology, and Gender Studies as an Assistant Professor. Dr. Winters earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology with a concentration in Critical Criminology from the University of Tennessee Knoxville in May 2020. Additionally, she earned a Bachelor of Specialized Studies in Sociology, Psychology, and Family Studies in 2007 and a Master of Arts in Sociology in 2011 at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Prior to joining Stan State, she was an Assistant Professor at Arkansas State University – Jonesboro.

Dr. Winters’ research examines the consequences of the expansions of the carceral state and mass surveillance, particularly within the lives of criminalized people. Using qualitative data collection methods, she explores the intersections of privilege and disadvantage (race, gender, class, sexuality, and disability) within carceral mechanisms. Dr. Winters’ most recent research traces the emergence of long-acting reversible contraceptives as the primary mechanisms of reproductive healthcare and social policy in Tennessee. This work highlights her interdisciplinary research interests in Sociology, Criminology, Law & Society, Gender & Sexuality Studies, and Family Studies.

Outside of her work, Della spends her time listening to podcasts, practicing yoga, watching movies with her dog Lucy, and going to concerts.