Contact
Email
Location
Machmer W-37A

About

As a PhD candidate in sociology, my research delves into the dynamic interplay between social
networks, health, and non-material forms of capital, with a particular emphasis on immigrant
communities. My prior studies have explored how social and cultural capital shape health
perceptions, access to resources, and the flow of information within social circles. These
investigations have deepened my commitment to understanding how the structures of social
networks and the nuances of cultural contexts influence the accessibility and effectiveness of
health information, impacting individual and community health outcomes alike.

Building on this foundation, my current work focuses on addressing the loneliness epidemic
through a sociological lens. By examining how social networks and community resources can
alleviate social isolation and foster resilience, I aim to uncover strategies that promote both
individual well-being and collective health. Through this work, I strive to contribute to a broader
understanding of how interconnected social systems can drive positive health outcomes across
diverse populations.

Education

M.S., Sociology, Southern Connecticut State University, 2015
B.S., Sociology, Southern Connecticut State University, 2012
A.S., General Studies, CT Community College, 2010

Research Interests

Social Networks, Medical Sociology, Health inequality, Immigration, & Social Theory

Peer-reviewed Publications

               Samuels, E., Kelley, L., Pham, T., Cross, J., Carmona, J., Ellis, P., Cobbs-Lomax, D., D’Onofrio, G., Capp, R. (2021). “I wanted to participate in my own care”: Evaluation of a Patient Navigation Program. The Western Journal of Emergency Medicine, 22(2), 417-426.

               Kelley, L., Capp, R., Carmona, J., D’Onofrio, G., Mei, H., Cobbs-Lomax, D., & Ellis, P.
(2020). Patient Navigation to Reduce Emergency Department (ED) Utilization among Medicaid
Insured, Frequent ED Users: A Randomized Control Trial. Journal of Emergency Medicine,
58(6), 967-977.


               Capp, R., Kelley, L., Ellis, P., Carmona, J., Lofton, A., Cobbs-Lomax, D., & D’Onofrio,
G. (2016). Reasons for Frequent Emergency Department Use by Medicaid Enrollees: A
Qualitative Study. Academic Emergency Medicine, 23(4), 476-481.

Awards/Fellowships/Grants

Spaulding Smith Fellowship                                                                   2024
University of Massachusetts Amherst


Lawrence Pisani Sociology Achievement Award                              2012
Southern Connecticut State University