Launched by University Communication in fall 2018, Faculty 101 delivers regular insights — some serious, others silly — into the work and lives of Husker faculty.

Hosted by Mary Jane Bruce, the stories explore what inspires faculty and their research, along with the lessons they’ve learned in the classroom and field.

Listen: Faculty 101 with Deadric Williams

In this episode of Faculty 101, Bruce talks with Deadric Williams, assistant professor of sociology, about being a first-generation college student, why he loves sociology and how his upbringing has shaped his research.

Williams received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at Mississippi State University before completing his doctorate at Nebraska and joining the faculty.

In the first half of the episode, Williams talks about finding his passion in the field of sociology and how he relates to and helps his own students, especially fellow first-generation undergraduates.

Keep listening to take a dive into Williams’ research. He explores the links among economic stress, parents’ mental health and the negative outcomes of relationships and families, along with how the body’s physiological response to racial inequality leads to chronic health problems.

Then, find out how Williams maintains his enthusiasm and energy while keeping up with the demands of his family, students and research endeavors.

Faculty 101 episodes will be featured here on Nebraska Today, but you can also subscribe via iTunes and Stitcher. Additional podcast delivery systems will be announced as they come online.

As always, we welcome your feedback. If you like the podcast, please subscribe and share it via a favorite social media channel. You can also offer us feedback and story ideas by sending email to nebraskatoday@unl.edu or calling 402-472-8515.