As the Research Manager, Calista Small leads and manages mixed-methods studies on a range of topics related to social cohesion and division in the US. Previously, she worked across two labs at Columbia University: the Couples Lab, where she researched stress in the context of interpersonal relationships, and the SCAN Lab, where she assisted fMRI research on mixed emotional experiences. Prior to her work in psychology, she spent four years working in the arts as both a professional actor and producer of contemporary, interdisciplinary performance. She holds a B.A. in Humanities from Yale University and a post-baccalaureate degree in Psychology from Columbia University.
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Calista Small
Research Manager
New York, NY
Favorite MiC Finding:
A majority of American adults are interested in participating in “bridging activities” across differences of race/ethnicity, political viewpoint, socioeconomic status, and religion.
Source: Social Connection project (publication forthcoming)
Why: Fostering meaningful connection across lines of difference is one of the most important ways to build trust and warmth between groups –feelings that act as the social “glue” that holds a pluralistic democracy together. The fact that so many Americans express interest in forming these connections gives me hope that improving both intergroup relations and civic life in the US is possible.