Dian Jordan-Werhane
Sociology Program
Department of Social Sciences
Instructor's research
1. Social issues and public acceptance of drinking treated flowback and produced water (FPW). Through an alliance with the Texas Water and Energy Institute (TWEI Faculty), Jordan studies the interrelationships between macro and micro dimensions of water use behaviors which allows for an understanding to emerge on how the dialectical relationships shape outreach and extension policies and agendas. Spiritual and cultural valuations, recreational valuation and associated tourism economies, and the availability of water for future generations are all areas of extension and outreach that should be addressed. Jordan has also proposed development of a multi-institutional curriculum.
2. Eco-tourism: How the Flood Control Act (1958) impacted Choctaws, farming, and moonshine in Hochatown, Oklahoma. Read more about the current efforts to re-establish the community Hochatown 360. Jordan has been collecting photos, letters, artifacts, and ephemera for a proposed exhibition and book.
3. Rural Tourism: Water infrastructure and community strain - This project focuses on creating infrastructure and sustainable social and community relations related to rural tourism. Specifically, expansion of potable water and creating a waste-water facility are primary objectives. Research includes identifying resources for rural potable water and waste-water projects; monitor water policy and practice; build collaborative relationships with community stakeholders; and delineate data related to the rural tourism growth industry and resident demographics. Students can learn more about becoming a research assistant here.
4. Harold Stevenson (American, Oklahoma, 1929 - 2018) biography. Dr. Jordan's research focuses on the Post-war, Pop, and mid-century art and artists that Stevenson was associated with. Stevenson met Andy Warhol in 1949, the year they both arrived on the New York City art scene. They remained close friends until Warhol's death. Stevenson's works are included in the permanent collections of the Solomon R. Guggenheim, NY; Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC; Museum of Modern Art, NY; Yale University Art Gallery; Blanton Gallery at the University of Texas and Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. In 2019-2020, she served as the visiting curator at the Museum of the Red River, Idabel, OK for Art in Community: The Harold Stevenson Collection.
In 2021, Jordan has been recognized with the Oklahoma Governor's Arts Award for her significant contributions to the arts in the areas of community leadership and volunteerism.