Sociology · Carleton University

Arleth
Lugo Ruiz

Master's Student in Sociology

Researching accessibility, disability justice, and the experiences of multiply marginalized students in higher education.

Portrait of Arleth Lugo Ruiz
Arleth Lugo Ruiz

01 / Introduction

About me

I am a Master's student in Sociology at Carleton University, where my research sits at the intersection of critical disability studies and critical drug studies.

My work examines the barriers faced by disabled students and students who use drugs in higher education, with a particular focus on institutional accessibility, support systems, and the experiences of multiply marginalized students.

I am committed to advancing disability justice, supporting drug policy reform, and challenging stigma surrounding mental health, disability, and drug use.

02 / Scholarship

Research & interests

My academic interests include:

  • Critical Drug Studies
  • Critical Disability Studies
  • Mad Studies
  • Accessibility in higher education
  • Disability justice
  • Drug policy reform

Featured research project

Multiply Marginalized: Drug Consumption and Disability in Higher Education

This project was supervised by Professor Kelly Fritsch and received Carleton University's 2025 Undergraduate Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Research Award.

03 / Education

Academic background

  • Master's student in Sociology Carleton University
  • Honours Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
  • Diploma in Advertising

04 / Recognition

Awards & honours

2025–2026

Dr. Robert Hiscott Scholarship

Awarded for the 2025–2026 academic year.

2025

Carleton Undergraduate Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Research Award

For “Multiply Marginalized: Drug Consumption and Disability in Higher Education,” supervised by Professor Kelly Fritsch.

2024

Inaugural Carleton Changemaker Award

Recipient of the inaugural award.

2023

CASG Equity Scholarship for Students with Disabilities

Scholarship recipient.

05 / Engagement

Community & advocacy

Beyond my academic research, I have been actively involved in campus advocacy and community engagement.

My experience includes serving as co-chair of the Sociology and Anthropology Student Association, supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ communities through the Carleton Pride Society, and hosting the podcast Under The Rainbow.

These experiences reflect my commitment to inclusive academic and community spaces, disability justice, and meaningful conversations about equity and accessibility.

06 / Connect

Get in touch

For academic or research-related inquiries, please feel free to reach out.