Kristi Williams, The Ohio State University, is a Senior Scholar with the Council on Contemporary Families, which provides the press and public with the latest research and best-practice findings about American families. ASA asked Williams about that work:
What is the mission of CCF? The Council on Contemporary Families is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to providing the press and public with the latest research and best-practice findings about American families. Founded in 1996 and based at the University of Texas-Austin, the Council’s mission is to enhance the national understanding of how and why contemporary families are changing, what needs and challenges they face, and how these needs can best be met. To fulfill that mission, the Council holds annual conferences open to the public, and issues periodic briefing papers and fact sheets.
Can you describe your work with CCF? I have engaged in multiple projects with CCF, including writing briefing papers for research symposia, organizing a conference, and writing op-eds related to family issues. I also supervised an undergraduate intern who worked with me on CCF projects. My involvement is ongoing.
What sociological knowledge and/or skills do you use? Data analysis and writing; knowledge of current state of research on family, nonmarital fertility, and health; and professional networks.
How did you connect with CCF? The Council initially contacted me with a request to write a briefing paper. I now serve on the Board and organized their 2016 conference.
