Margaret Hunter
Ph.D. 1999, Sociology, UCLA
Margaret “Maggie” Hunter specializes in research on race and gender discrimination. More specifically, Hunter investigates colorism, or how people of color experience discrimination according to the lightness or darkness of their skin tone. Her research on colorism has led to additional studies on skin bleaching practices around the globe and trends in “ethnic cosmetic surgery.” Her research has been highlighted in many media outlets and in the documentary, “Light Girls.” Hunter also researches the race and gender politics of hip-hop. Hip-hop was the soundtrack of her youth and she is fascinated by the evolution of this cultural movement. Most recently, she has been researching Gen Z and their attitudes toward racial and gender justice in higher education. She has been very inspired by the youth activists of the past several years who have led movements for racial justice across the country, and the world.
Hunter really enjoys classroom teaching and is always looking for new and creative ways to teach and learn with students. She enjoys community-engaged learning and hands-on experiences for students. She teaches classes such as Social Movements, Sociological Theory, Introduction to Research Design and Methods, and other courses on racial and gender issues in the U.S.
Maggie Hunter grew up in Toledo, Ohio in a mixed race family (white Jewish mother from New York and African American father from Ohio). She went to the University of Wisconsin, Madison for her undergraduate degree where she was a Sociology major. She has been at Santa Clara University since 2022. Maggie likes to socialize with friends, try new foods (especially desserts), and she loves to dance at parties.