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Meet the Dean
Learn more about Social Science's Dean
Meet the Dean
Learn more about Social Science's Dean
Meet the Dean
Learn more about Social Science's Dean
Nicholas Harney
Dean, Faculty of Social Science
Professor of Anthropology
Harney’s research interests include the social anthropology of urban life, migration studies, and critical perspectives on global processes with a focus on Italy and Canada. He is the author of numerous articles, book chapters and two books Eh, Paesan!: Being Italian in Toronto (University of Toronto Press) and The Lucky Immigrant: The Public Life of Fortunato Rao (CITD, University of Toronto/MHSO). He has been awarded competitive national research grants in Canada (SSHRC) and Australia (ARC) about migration.
He has been Dean of Social Science at Western since August 2021. Previously he served as Chair of Department of Anthropology and Sociology, and later, Associate Dean International in the Faculty of Arts at the University of Western Australia. More recently he was Chair of Sociology, Anthropology and Criminology at the University of Windsor. Nick has taught undergraduates and graduates on four continents about migration and cities. Since 2012 Nick has been a Visiting Professor at the Università degli Studi di Trento’s Department of Sociology and Social Research and has over twenty-five years research focused on migration, urban space, and global processes.
Graduating magna cum laude in social anthropology from Harvard University, Harney earned his MA and PhD in social/cultural anthropology from the University of Toronto. He pursued postdoctoral studies as the Mariano A. Elia Chair in Italian Canadian Studies at York University.
Message from the Dean
"Welcome to the Faculty of Social Science at Western! As you embark on your exciting journey into university life, we want to introduce you to the incredible opportunities and perspectives waiting for you here. In our fast-paced world, being adaptable and having strong analytical thinking skills are essential. Our Faculty is here to equip you with these skills along with a deep appreciation for diverse people and cultures. With these tools, you'll not only succeed in your studies but also in your personal and professional life. A social science foundation, for example, is essential to address our global climate crisis, or the potential and consequence of the next pandemic. The natural sciences can analyze, assess, and develop techniques to address climate science or disease, but sustainability and managing pandemics ultimately create political and social challenges that require a wholistic approach deeply engaged with social relations and cultural processes as they inform, frame, and transform the natural world. How do you trust the news, make informed choices, or understand the many inter-related effects of a local crisis with global consequences? Our courses provide you with the tools, models, and insights needed to thrive in this ever-changing landscape. Our alumni have gone on to pursue exciting careers in law, government, NGOs, business, technology, and more. They've learned to adapt to unfamiliar situations and seize opportunities, and we're here to help you do the same. We don't just want you to study; we want you to engage with the vibrant life of our Faculty. University is not just about academics. Join student clubs, attend events, and participate in initiatives that spark your curiosity. Challenge the status quo, question assumptions, develop new friendships and reflect on your values. Through these experiences, you'll build skills and perspectives that empower you to make a difference in the world. So, welcome to the Faculty of Social Science at Western. Get ready to explore, learn, and grow, and know that you're part of a community dedicated to helping you thrive in both your academic and personal journey. Your adventure starts here!" - Nicholas Harney, Dean, Faculty of Social Science