Welcome
I’m Jara Pallas-Brink, an anthropologist, educator, and qualitative researcher. I work at the intersection of culture, care, and complexity, helping people and organizations make sense of lived experience.
My background spans over 16 years across academic, nonprofit, and consulting settings. I specialize in qualitative research, facilitation, and cultural analysis. My work focuses on food systems, caregiving, health equity, and community resilience.
I hold a master’s in cultural anthropology and am currently completing my PhD at Wayne State University. My dissertation explores food aid and mutual care in Southeast Michigan. I also teach anthropology and environmental health courses at universities and community colleges in Michigan.
What I Do
I lead and support projects that center human experience and cultural context. This includes:
Qualitative research and moderation
In-depth interviews, focus groups, research design, and analysis
Workshops and facilitation
Training sessions, stakeholder conversations, and student-led learning experiences
Speaking and teaching
Guest lectures, conference presentations, and applied course development
Cultural insight
Bridging social theory with practical questions in research, strategy, and community work
I’m based in Michigan and work with clients, students, and collaborators across disciplines. I value work that is relational, rigorous, and grounded in care.