
Dr. Lara Foley is a distinguished sociologist and academic leader at The University of Tulsa, where she serves as Associate Dean for Student Affairs in the Kendall College of Arts & Sciences and as a Professor of Sociology. Her scholarly work centers on how individuals narrate their lives, relationships, and occupations, particularly within transitional or marginalized contexts. Her research delves into identity formation in liminal spaces, such as the shift from dating to friendship or the experiences of international students navigating dual cultures.
Beyond her research, Dr. Foley is deeply committed to experiential learning and global education. She has previously held roles as Assistant Vice Provost and Associate Dean for Global Education at TU. She has also directed the Office of Integrative and Experiential Learning, designing interdisciplinary courses that encourage students to engage with contemporary issues through creative and scholarly projects.