Mark D. Wodziak

Mark D. Wodziak is a sociologist whose teaching and research focuses on urban sociology, race and ethnicity, immigration, education, new media, and pedagogy. He has been teaching at DePaul for 16 years and holds his graduate degrees in Sociology and Education from DePaul University. His past research examined how Polish and Indian ethnic enclaves have changed over time due to processes of assimilation and segregation. Another project examined white people involved in the hip hop culture of Chicago; specifically, it examined white privilege, white reflexivity, white exceptionalism, and the possibilities of developing anti-racist politics through interracial coalitions. His current research focuses on best practices of multicultural pedagogy across a gamut of urban high schools with differing racial populations in Chicago. His ongoing research informs the way he works to most effectively reach the diverse student population at DePaul. 

Mark is currently working on a co-edited volume titled, “Black Struggle, Hope, and Freedom: Perspectives from the 21st Century Color Line". This work in-progress features a range of scholars, poets, activists, as well as youth and adult community organizers, speaking to the impacts of white supremacy, neo-colonialism, and failed economic disinvestment in the lives of Black Americans today.

Mark is certified as a secondary education teacher in the fields of history, sociology, and psychology; and he is currently pursuing a K-21 special education endorsement. He also designed two new courses for the sociological curriculum. One course focuses on the global economic, cultural, and racial dynamics of hip-hop culture; and the other course, Crime in Chicago, utilizes Mark's expertise as a life-long Chicagoan and background in social history to introduce students to the historical roots, causes, consequences, and legacy of crime in Chicago's neighborhoods. 

As a "Double Demon," Mark prides himself on his service to the DePaul University community. One example in 2020, he assisted in leading fora with undergraduate and graduate students in the College of Education on systemic racism and police brutality in the wake of the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Aubrey, and other Peoples of Color. Two integral college committees, relative to student and faculty anti-racism, emerged from his contribution. In 2021, Mark collaborated with DePaul Athletics on initiatives to promote understanding and respect among various groups. He organized a team of specialists and spearheaded seminars focused on combating racism for DePaul's student-athletes, coaches, and athletics staff members. His work with Athletics contributed to the hiring of a full-time specialist who continues important efforts against racism with strategic partners. In addition to these initiatives, Mark continues to work diligently to create a culture of belonging at the university, ensuring that all students feel valued, supported, and included in the DePaul community.

In 2022, Mark received DePaul University's Excellence in Teaching Award. This award recognizes significant achievement in teaching as well as a commitment to the university's teaching mission.

In his spare time Mark travels the world, visiting 46 countries to date, and takes walks with his dog Muffin, an 18-year-old Shih Tzu.