KRISTINA MICU
SOCIAL MOVEMENTS | RELIGION
I am a Doctoral student in the Global Urban Studies Ph.D. program at Rutgers University-Newark. I earned an MA in International Affairs at New School University. I am an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Sociology and Urban Studies at Saint Peter’s University.
RESEARCH INTERESTS
My research investigates how collective action is constructed and agency is generated despite various conflicting and overlapping associational ties. I critically examine the structural factors, conditions and strategies that mediate the formation of collective action as well as the cultural factors and meanings that orients and propels groups of individuals to mobilize.
My research focuses on faith communities, specifically local christian churches, in relation to one another and its relation to other social institutions. I argue that an analysis of religious beliefs and the ways in which faith communities operate can increase knowledge in collaboration and partnership.
My study is part of a larger research agenda that explores social movement formation specifically religious social movements and the dynamic role and mobilization of faith communities within this contemporary globalizing context of the 21st century.
CURRICULUM VITAE
BACKGROUND
Being an active member in my local church is what led me to pursue my doctoral research. I observed how local churches carried out community initiatives like food drives, coat drives, ESL teaching, building houses and hosting after-school programs and vacation bible school for children. At the global level, state governments, international and non-governmental organizations are mobilizing to provide humanitarian aid, counseling, food, water and shelter, often relying on religious institutions like local churches to carry out much of the aid and project initiatives at the grassroots level.
As an active church member, the experience of working together with various local and global organizations, and networking with different entities both in my surrounding community and in other parts of the world motivated me to dig deeper into understanding how cooperation can increase despite differences of interest.
My research goal is to highlight not only the structures and networks of local churches but to also bring to the fore how religious beliefs motivates and mobilizes collective action. With this goal, I hope to move beyond a structural analysis of local churches and examine the cultural processes that lead faith communities to come together and act collectively. By doing so, my work is aimed towards deepening the discourse on collaboration in order to bridge divisions, increase cooperation, and generate a more profound impact on the work that local churches do.
EDUCATION
Rutgers University
May 2025
Ph.D. Student, Global Urban Studies
Collective Action, Social Movements & Religion
New School University
May 2016
Master of Arts in International Affairs
Specialization: Conflict & Security
Saint Peter’s University
May 2008
Bachelor of Arts, Summa Cum Laude
Major: Sociology and Urban Studies