Sociology Insider’s Fall 2026 issue included an Alumni Profile on Lina Guzman, former UW Survey Center Project Director.
Lina Guzman (PhD Sociology ’03) exemplifies the impact UW–Madison alumni can have beyond academia. After completing her doctorate and beginning her post-PhD career at the UW Survey Center, Guzman went on to join Child Trends, where she advanced from analyst to her current role as Chief Strategy Officer. She credits her graduate training at UW–Madison, particularly the rigorous mentorship of emerita professor Betty Thompson, with developing the critical thinking, research, and analytical skills that continue to guide her leadership today. Guzman also reflects on the lasting value of the professional relationships she built during graduate school and encourages current students to explore career pathways that align with their strengths and passions. Her career journey demonstrates how UW Survey Center alumni continue to make significant contributions to research, policy, and organizational leadership at the national level.
Read the Sociology Insider Issue and Profile here.