About the Authors

Sarah McCart is an International Human Rights major at Webster University.  She had the fortunate opportunity to live in Thailand through Webster’s Study Abroad program.  This live changing experience shaped Sarah’s world view and taught her the importance of appreciating and respecting other cultures.  She is passionate about traveling, gender equality, and she hopes to teach English abroad after graduating.

Jessica Mitchell earned a double major Bachelor’s degree in International Human Rights and Psychology from Webster University – Saint Louis. She has been researching the United States prison system for five years, including its history, its political, social and individual implications, and its institutionalized human rights violations. Mitchell is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Webster University, and she plans to become a counselor for incarcerated women and continue her work as a social advocate for prison reform.

Caity Rautenstrauch is a graduate from Webster University’s International Human Rights program. She recently worked with inmates at a country jail to learn about one of the hidden facets of the United States justice system. She is currently living in Switzerland and continues researching and writing about women’s rights and the rights of nomadic and indigenous peoples.

Julia Rich received a B.A. in International Human Rights at Webster University, where she also studied Spanish. She volunteers at the Immigrant and Refugee Women’s Program in St. Louis, Missouri, where she teaches English and citizenship to immigrants from around the world. Though many aspects of human rights discourse interest her, Julia is particularly interested in research related to the intersection of multiple oppressions, focusing mainly on immigration and gender issues.

Megan Summers graduated from Webster University in Spring 2012 with a B.A. in International Human Rights and a certificate in International Studies. She is from St. Louis, Missouri, but currently lives in Kansas City. Her interests include LGBT equality and women’s rights, as well as the combination of human rights, social networking, and the media. She is working towards establishing a career in the non-profit sector and intends to obtain a Master’s degree in non-profit management or public policy in the future.