Dr. Elizabeth Bennett Awarded Franklin Research Grant

The American Philosophical Society (APS) has awarded Dr. Elizabeth Bennett, Associate Professor of International Affairs and Director of the Political Economy Program, a $6,000 Franklin Research Grant in support of her research. These funds will allow Dr. Bennett to travel to multiple sites to collect data for her project, entitled “What factors shape the implementation of voluntary sustainability certifications? The role of auditors, coalitions, and brands in living wage standards”. Dr. Bennett’s preliminary research has indicated that these three factors may influence implementation of living wage standards; APS grant support will allow Dr. Bennett to attend events and conduct participant observation at multiple sites around the world at which these groups—auditors, coalitions, and brands—interact with and influence the implementation of voluntary sustainability certifications (VSCs), particularly in textile supply chains. This research project has the potential to reshape how scholars understand and value the implementation process as a critical component of VSCs. It also will inform her work as an advocate for living wages. The data collected will contribute to an article Dr. Bennett plans to complete this semester, and is part of a longer term book project.

Dr. Bennett is internationally recognized for her expertise on labor exploitation in globalized supply chains. More information about her research and publications is available here.