Qualitative Methods in Geography class draws a crowd at community presentation

On May 3rd, 2023, graduate students from Dr. Michelle Zuñiga’s Qualitative Methods in Geography (GEOG 6115/8115) course presented their key findings regarding a qualitative study conducted to investigate tenant experiences living in corporate landlord housing in Charlotte. To an audience of about 60-70 local residents, a county commissioner (Pat Cotham), and the local news media (WCNC), researchers highlighted the key issues tenants are currently facing in Charlotte: a sense of disempowerment from their landlord and/or property manager, exponential rent increases, feeling stuck with few alternatives to corporate landlord housing, and significant barriers to one day buying a home of their own. This work was made possible through the community based partnership with Action NC, a local non-profit focused on economic and housing justice in Charlotte. The objective of our study was to assist Action NC in their organizing efforts with qualitative data including the collection of tenant stories through interviews. Read here to learn more about what was covered at the presentation of findings with residents and housing advocates.

Qualitative Methods in Geography researchers at their final presentation to the community on May 3rd. From left to right: Bakhytzhan Oskeyeva, Annalise Tolley, Dr. Michelle Zuñiga, Dillon Clausner, Kadae Phimia, and Sarah Paul