Sandy Smith-Nonini

Professional Background

Sandy Smith-Nonini is a highly regarded anthropologist and environmentalist whose work has significantly impacted the fields of health, environment, and workplace rights since 1992. With an extensive career dedicated to engaged research, Sandy has developed a keen focus on the politics surrounding health, environmental issues, and energy systems. Her current projects delve into the intricate relationship between oil dependence, petro-debt, and social inequality, particularly in the contexts of Puerto Rico and Greece. Both locations are emblematic of the long-standing struggles associated with oil dependence and the acute challenges posed by recent debt and energy crises. Sandy’s ongoing commitment to raising awareness about these pressing issues includes a collaborative film project with Roque Nonini. This documentary aims to chronicle the extensive blackout that followed Hurricane Maria, providing a critical lens on the societal implications of energy infrastructure vulnerabilities in Puerto Rico. This work is a vital component of her forthcoming book titled "Shocked: The Complex Relationship of Petro-Debt and Energy Poverty," which promises to enhance the discourse surrounding energy dependency and economic disparities.

Education and Achievements

Sandy’s academic journey began at Duke University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Zoology and Anthropology, laying a solid foundation for her future studies. She further advanced her academic career at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where she achieved her Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Anthropology. Her deep understanding of anthropological principles has been instrumental in shaping her approach to complex socio-environmental challenges.
In addition to her research endeavors, Sandy served as an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Anthropology at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, where she contributed to the education and mentorship of future anthropologists. Prior to this role, she held a position as an Assistant Professor of Anthropology at Elon University, fostering critical thinking and awareness about social justice and environmental sustainability among her students.

Community Engagement and Environmental Advocacy

In June 2011, Sandy founded and coordinated CommunEcos, a non-profit organization committed to environmental education. Under her leadership, CommunEcos has successfully organized over 300 weekly events focused on sustainability, community economics, and social justice. This initiative reflects Sandy's belief in the power of education and community involvement to drive meaningful change. Moreover, the organization operated a cooperative shop named "Recyclique" in Durham for seven years, offering sustainability-focused products and workshops that emphasize creative reuse and environmental stewardship.

Sandy’s research interests extend beyond traditional boundaries, as she rethinks the role of energy in capitalist economies. By concentrating on oil dependence and petro-debt, she aims to illuminate the connection between these factors and the escalating issues of energy poverty and social inequality. Furthermore, her exploration of complex systems theory provides a unique perspective on economic cooperation and competition, offering innovative approaches to understanding these intricate dynamics.

Through her scholarly work, community initiatives, and tireless advocacy in environmental education, Sandy Smith-Nonini stands as a beacon of knowledge and action in the interdisciplinary fields of anthropology and environmentalism. Her dedication to addressing the pressing challenges of our time continues to inspire many, fostering essential conversations around sustainability, health, and social justice.

Achievements

• Extensive engaged research on the politics of health, environment, workplace rights, and energy since 1992.
• Current research on petro-debt and energy poverty in Puerto Rico and Greece, including a documentary film on Hurricane Maria's blackout.
• Author of various ethnographic studies addressing health rights struggles in El Salvador and infectious disease politics in Peru and New York City.
• Over 300 community-driven events organized through CommunEcos focused on sustainability and social justice.
• Teaching experience at esteemed institutions such as the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Elon University.