Title: Sociologist and Author
Location: Bellingham, Washington, United States
Nanette J. Davis, PhD, sociologist and author, has been recognized by Marquis Who’s Who Top Artists for dedication, achievements, and leadership in sociology.
With nearly 40 years of experience to her credit, Dr. Davis has excelled in the field of sociology, with a focus on the sociology of teaching, criminology and deviant behavior, gerontology, and mental health. An esteemed figure in her field throughout the Pacific Northwest, she has likewise found success as an author, penning “Caregiving Our Loved Ones: Stories and Strategies That Will Change Your Life” for House of Harmony Press in 2012, “The ABCs of Caregiving: Words to Inspire You” for House of Harmony Press in 2013, and “The ABCs of Caregiving, Part 2: Essential Information for You and Your Family” for House of Harmony Press in 2015. Moreover, Dr. Davis has authored eight academic books and provided her expertise with more than 100 articles and conference papers.
Having made significant contributions to both academic and lay audiences, Dr. Davis’ latest book, “Raging Currents: Mental Illness and Family,” is a memoir that explores her personal experiences with mental health challenges within her family and was published via BookBaby in 2023. She has cited this publication among her most critical professional highlights.
Before retirement, Dr. Davis served as a contributing faculty member in the Department of Extended Learning and Summer Programs at Western Washington University in Bellingham, Washington, from 2001 to 2012, and also served in the Department of Sociology at the aforementioned university from 1997 to 2007. Her earlier career saw her working and refining her skills as a program coordinator at Chapman University’s Navy extension program, where she was instrumental in curriculum development and student engagement at military bases between 1995 and 1996. Dr. Davis’ exceptional endeavors in the classroom extended to teaching posts at The University of Sydney Law School, The Flinders University of South Australia and Southern Cross University in Australia.
Dr. Davis began her illustrious career as a professor at Portland State University, where she served from 1975 to 1992. In the years prior, she embarked upon her academic pursuits with a Bachelor of Science from St. Cloud State University in Minnesota. She continued her formal studies with a master’s degree from the University of Minnesota and a Doctor of Philosophy in Sociology from Michigan State University. She concluded her educational aspirations with a postdoctorate degree in Organizations and Mental Health at Stanford University in California.
Beyond her academic and professional commitments, Dr. Davis has dedicated over 30 years of time and attention to improving the world around her through community service. She is a co-founder and board member of Bellingham At Home, an organization that assists seniors in living independently. She also served as the president of the Western Washington University Retirement Association. Her contributions to the field and community have earned her recognition as well, including the renowned Fulbright Senior Scholar Award.
Looking ahead, Dr. Davis envisions herself continuing to influence the field of sociology and mental health through her writings and advocacy. She attributes her success to her relentless drive and the invaluable support of her family, friends, and colleagues.
Dr. Davis’ advice to those aspiring to make a mark in sociology is clear: “It’s a hard life, great deeds are achieved with sustained high energy. Remain steady, find your mentor and go for it.” She continues to inspire with her dedication to teaching, research and writing, showing that persistence and attention to societal needs can indeed foster significant change.
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