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News Archives
Dr. Xuefei Ren elected to the board of RC21 on Sociology of Urban and Regional Development
May 23, 2022
Research Committee 21 is the most active and visible association for global urban studies. Dr. Ren will search for the next three years.
MSU SOC senior wins the Ruth Hamilton All-University Award
May 19, 2022
Alyssa Bowen chose Sociology because she loves learning about human interaction and plans to have a career in human relations.
MSU Sociology Dr. Hui Liu to serve on National Institutes of Health Study Section
May 4, 2022 - Karessa Weir
Dr. Liu has accepted an invitation to serve as a standing member of the National Institutes of Health's Social Sciences and Population Studies B Study Section at the Center for Scientific Review.
Congratulations to Emily Fitzgerald, Outstanding Senior for MSU Sociology
May 3, 2022 - Karessa Weir
Fitzgerald, from Kalkaska, Mich., plans to open her own business in the future.
MSU Sociology student wins UURAF award
April 28, 2022 - Katherine Denzin
On April 13, 2022 in the Union Ballroom, undergraduate researchers, faculty and supporters - including Sociology major Brandon Roberts - gathered to celebrate the University Undergraduate Research and Arts Forum (UURAF) first place winners.
Diversity Champion: Dr. Rebecca Karam
April 27, 2022 - Liz Schondelmayer
Dr. Rebecca Karam is a sociologist at Michigan State University and a member of the College of Social Science's Dean's Research Associates Program. A fourth-generation Lebanese American, Dr. Karam's work centers around shining a light on the traditions, challenges and successes that Arab and Muslim Americans experience as they navigate life in the United States.
Time for an energy independence moonshot
April 14, 2022 - Dr. Tom Dietz
University Distinguished Professor of Sociology Tom Dietz writes that it is "time for an energy independence moonshot" in this op-ed article in The Hill, emphasizing that the best way to halt Russian energy dominance and their overall power is to make major near-term reductions in demand for Russian energy and create a foundation for larger long-term reductions.
Dr. Cathy Liu wins IPUMS Research Award
April 4, 2022
Dr. Liu's research article "Birth Cohort Trends in Health Disparities by Sexual Orientation" has been selected as a winner of the 2021IPUMS Research Awards, presented by the Institute for Social Research and Data Innovation at the University of Minnesota.
MSU Sociology student helps Ukrainian refugees over spring break
March 29, 2022 - Ben Cook
For many Michigan State University students, spring break offers a week away from class and often the dreary March weather. However, for MSU Sociology junior Tamara Hyman, traveling to Poland as part of an alternative spring break to learn more about her culture and history, became part of history as she unexpectedly lent a hand to refugees in need.
Diversity Spotlight: Dr. Theda Skocpol
March 23, 2022 - Becky Jensen
Dr. Theda Skocpol, an MSU Sociology alumna. is the Victor S. Thomas Professor of Government and Sociology at Harvard University, and is a world-renowned author. She has dedicated her life to equity, social justice education and activism.
MSU Sociology PhD student Lalaki Awudu awarded the Ruth Simms Hamilton Graduate Merit Fellowship
March 22, 2022
The selection committee was impressed with Awudu's overall research trajectory, the originality of her project, and her genuine and explicit engagement with Hamilton’s notion of the African Diaspora.
MSU Sociology Assistant Professor stef shuster wins GenCen Professional Achievement Award
March 17, 2022
The MSU Center for Gender in Global Context announced the university-wide awards for work in gender equity and social justice.
Summer 2022 Online Course Spotlight: Youth & Society
March 16, 2022
This week in our Summer 2022 Online Course highlights, we are pleased to share SOC 316: Youth & Society with Kitty Groeller.
Dr. Stephanie Nawyn works with Michigan Women's Commission to encourage women to run for office
March 16, 2022
MSU Sociology Associate Professor Stephanie Nawyn, director of the MSU Center for Gender in Global Context (GenCen) worked with the Michigan Women's Commission on research showing women are underrepresented in the state legislature and government.
MSU Sociology PhD student Zoey Lai wins research award
March 15, 2022
Wenhua (Zoey) Lai is the 2022 recipient of the Kenneth E. Corey Research Enrichment Fund, awarded by the College of Social Science.
MSU Sociology's Dr. Ning Hsieh and stef shuster awarded 2022 Teacher-Scholar Awards
March 4, 2022
MSU Sociology Assistant Professors Dr. stef shuster and Dr. Ning Hsieh have received a 2022 Teacher-Scholar Award. This All-University Award is a high honor for junior faculty at MSU. The nomination and selection process is highly competitive within colleges and across the university. Successful awardees indeed must demonstrate excellence in both teaching and research.
Dr. Xuefei Ren awarded Urban Studies Grant to research pandemic impacts
March 4, 2022
Collaborating with faculty from York University (Canada) and University of Witwatersrand (South Africa), MSU Sociology Associate Professor Dr. Xuefei Ren is awarded a grant to study COVID-19's impact in vulnerable urban neighborhoods in Toronto, Johannesburg, and Chicago.
MSU Sociology PhD student Nathan Poirier co-edits book on animal studies
March 1, 2022
"Emerging New Voices in Critical Animal Studies: Vegan Studies for Total Liberation" shares critical animal studies voices throughout the world.
Racial inequality in the Anglophone Caribbean: comparing the cases of Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago
February 28, 2022 - Dr. Monique Kelly
MSU Sociology Assistant Professor Monique Kelly has published research which compares affluence and status in Jamaica with Trinidad and Tobago, both Black majority countries.
Summer '22 Course Spotlight: Society and Mental Health
February 28, 2022
MSU Sociology is highlighting its Summer 2022 Courses that are open for all undergraduates. This week, we focus on SOC 350: Society and Mental Health with Dr. Jodi Yelinek.
MSU Sociology welcomes PJ Pettis as new Assistant Professor this fall
February 25, 2022
Philip J. "PJ" Pettis, a PhD candidate at Vanderbilt University, will join the thematic area of Sexual and Gender Minority Health research at MSU.
Diversity Champion: Dr. Jualynne E. Dodson
February 24, 2022 - Liz Schondelmayer and Jualynne Dodson
MSU Sociology Professor Emeritus Dr. Jualynne Dodson is an award-winning scholar who has dedicated her career to studying the religion and culture of African descendant peoples in the Americas.
Summer Course Spotlight: SOC 214 Social Inequality with Vanessa Rickenbrode
February 21, 2022
This week's Summer 22 Course Spotlight is SOC 214 Social Inequality with Vanessa Rickenbrode. Enroll today!
Summer '22 Course Spotlight: People & the Environment
February 14, 2022
MSU Sociology is highlighting its Summer 2022 Courses that are open for all undergraduates. This week, we focus on ISS 310: People and Environment with Dr. Ben Marley.
MSU Sociology announces Summer '22 Courses
February 11, 2022
MSU Sociology is excited to announce a full slate of Summer Courses for 2022.
Sociology PhD students Gerald Nowak and Hannah Pierson published in Public Health Post
January 27, 2022
Pierson and Nowak, together with Dr. Hui Liu, published their research in the the article titled "Young LGB Americans Face Larger Health Disparities."
Carbon labels can influence businesses and people to reduce carbon emissions, MSU Sociologists find
January 27, 2022
Newly published research in Nature Climate Change is by Dr. Thomas Dietz, MSU University Distinguished Professor and MSU Sociology alumna Dr. Rachael Shwom.
Dr. Jennifer Carrera featured by National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
January 25, 2022
Dr. Carrera was awarded a NIEHS-funded Transition to Independent Environmental Health Research (TIEHR) Career Award to pursue her work in Flint, Michigan.
MSU Sociology Professor named top educational influencer
January 7, 2022
Barbara Schneider, John A. Hannah Chair and University Distinguished Professor in the College of Education and Department of Sociology, is ranked as the #74 (up from 79 in 2021) Educational Influencers in the nation.
Improving low-income households’ access to energy and internet needs to be a priority for federal, state and local programs
January 5, 2022 - Karessa Weir
Energy poverty and lack of internet access need to be addressed by federal and state programs, and the programs need to include several factors including communication, social and behavioral factors, according to a new paper published by Dr. Tom Dietz, MSU University Distinguished Professor of Sociology and founding director of the Environmental Science and Policy Program.
MSU Sociology Alumni Updates
December 21, 2021
In 2021, PhD alumni of MSU Sociology had several accomplishments ranging from new books, promotions and grants.
Dr. Isabel Ayala publishes methods to deal with microaggressions
December 20, 2021
MSU Sociology Professor Dr. Isabel Ayala has published research on Racial Microaggressions and Coping Mechanisms Among Latina/o College Students in Sociological Forum.
MSU Sociology PhD student Lalaki Awudu wins GenCen Fellowship
December 16, 2021
Congratulations to Lalaki Awudu who was awarded a $10,000 Dissertation Research Fellowship sponsored by the Center for Gender in Global Context and the Women’s and Gender Studies! This fellowship will assist Lalaki in completing her degree.
MSU Sociology's Dr. Linda Kalof and alum Dr. Cameron Whitley win Distinguished Article Award
December 15, 2021
Cameron Thomas Whitley, Linda Henry Kalof and Tim Flach won the Distinguished Article award from the American Sociological Association Section on Animals and Society.
Dr. Stephen Gasteyer receives USDA grant to study rural water, sewer infrastructure
December 9, 2021
The USDA grant is for a four year research project. The second grant is through the Lansing Regional Sister Cities Commission.
MSU Sociology Professor Zhenmei Zhang shares her expertise on elder abuse with WalletHub
December 9, 2021 - Kayla McKaig
Michigan ranks #19 in U.S. elder abuse cases in WalletHub study - Dr. Zhenmei Zhang provides expert assistance with study methodology
MSU Sociology Professor Steve Gold wins Outstanding Academic Title award
December 7, 2021
Dr. Steve Gold's book Wandering Jews: Global Jewish Migration was selected by Choice as an Outstanding Academic Title.
Contradictions Between Pledges, Declarations, and Action at COP26
December 3, 2021 - Stephen Gasteyer
Dr. Stephen Gasteyer, Associate Professor of Sociology, has published "Contradictions Between Pledges, Declarations, and Action at COP26" in the Health and Human Rights Journal.
Two new Animal Studies publications are now available
December 2, 2021
Dr. Linda Kalof, Professor of Sociology and Director of the MSU Graduate Specialization in Animal Studies, announces two new publications relating to animal-human relations.
Kayleigh Ward receives 2022 Graduate Student Award for Community Engagement Scholarship
November 22, 2021
Ward, a dual major PhD student with Environmental Science and Policy Program, won the award for her project “Reviving community: rebuilding social recovery in rural post-disaster Japan.”
Thirsty cities need a human/nature infrastructure combo
November 22, 2021 - Sue Nichols
MSU Sociology University Distinguished Professor Thomas Dietz has published research finding that human construction alone doesn't make urban water ecosystem services sustainable.
MSU Sociology Chair Aaron McCright named top cited research for third year in a row
November 17, 2021
Dr. McCright is among 10 MSU faculty to be listed on the 2021 Highly Cited Researchers List compiled by Clarivate Analytics.
AART Anniversary Symposium celebrates 25 years of African Religious Diaspora Research
October 28, 2021 - Karessa Weir
Joyous drumming, spirited discussion and somber remembrances came together both in person and online to celebrate the mentoring collective and research legacy of the African Atlantic Research Team.
Diversity Spotlight: Dr. Cameron Whitley
October 14, 2021 - Liz Schondelmayer
MSU Sociology PhD alum Dr. Cameron Whitley is an assistant professor at Western Washington University's College of Humanities and Social Sciences. But before he was a Viking, Dr. Whitley was a Spartan, earning both his Master's degree and PhD from the Michigan State University College of Social Science.
Sarah Prior named Undergraduate Program Director
October 12, 2021
Dr. Sarah Prior is the Undergraduate Program Director for the Department of Sociology. She works to improve the undergraduate curriculum and learning experiences for all our undergraduate students.
Plumbing Poverty: Dr. Stephen Gasteyer on the lack of basic indoor plumbing in the U.S.
October 7, 2021
Dr. Stephen Gasteyer, associate professor of sociology, discusses the plumbing poverty across the United States with The Guardian in this article published Sept. 27.
MSU Sociology alum and emeritus professor publish a new book focusing on aging in rural Japan
October 5, 2021
MSU Sociology PhD alumna Dr. Kimiko Tanaka and Professor Emerita Dr. Nan Johnson wrote "Successful Aging in a Rural Community in Japan" which provides the perspective that the quality of community may be a crucial factor that could buffer the negative effects of rurality on the well-being of the elderly.
MSU Sociology research team awarded First Generation Student Initiative Award to study racial disparities in PhD completion times
October 1, 2021 - Karessa Weir
A team of MSU Sociology researchers has been awarded $3,000 to study "Invisible Obstacles and Hidden Curriculum: Behind Racial Disparities in Times to Degree Completion in Sociology."
Wealthy people are both the cause and the solution to climate change
September 30, 2021 - Karessa Weir
MSU Sociology University Distinguished Professor Tom Dietz has co-authored a paper in the journal Nature Energy which identifies ways that people of high socioeconomic status have a disproportionate impact on global greenhouse gas emissions - and therefore an outsized responsibility to facilitate the progress in climate change mitigation.
Dr. Xuefei Ren has been selected as a fellow for the India China Institute of the New School
September 30, 2021
Xuefei Ren has been selected as a Fellow for the India China Institute’s International Research Seminar “Shifting Geographies of Expertise and Policymaking” in 2021-2022, hosted by the New School for Social Research in New York.
Same-Sex Couples and Cognitive Impairment: Evidence from the Health and Retirement Study
September 21, 2021 - Karessa Weir
MSU Sociology Professors Hui Liu and Zhenmei Zhang, Assistant Professor Ning Hsieh and recent PhD alumnus Yan Zhang have published an article with University of Michigan's Kenneth M. Langa the provides the first nationally-representative population-based study of cognitive disparities among same-sex and different-sex couples in the United States.
Extra! Extra! New newsletter released from the Family and Population Health Laboratory
September 20, 2021
The FPH Chronicle has released its debut issue as the official annual newsletter of the Family and Population Health Laboratory.
Legalization of marijuana doesn't lead to an increase in teen use, an MSU Sociology PhD student has found
September 16, 2021 - Karessa Weir
In a research paper published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), Sam Safford and three other authors share research that shows the use of marijuana in high school students did not increase following the passage of recreational marijuana legislation in those states.
American religious groups have a history of resettling refugees – including Afghans
September 2, 2021 - Dr. Stephanie Nawyn
Dr. Stephanie Nawyn writes about the efforts to resettle Afghanistan refugees in this article for The Conversation.
MSU Sociology PhD students awarded dissertation completion fellowships
August 24, 2021
Kayleigh Ward and Anna Wilcoxson each earned a Spring 2022 Dissertation Completion Fellowship from MSU.
Dr. Hui Liu accepts position as MSU Sociology Graduate Program Director
August 17, 2021
MSU Sociology Chair Aaron McCright announced that Dr. Hui Liu has accepted the position as Graduate Program Director.
MSU Sociology welcomes PhD student Drew Kirks-Cler
August 11, 2021
Drew Kirks-Cler is an incoming graduate student with interests at the intersection of health and LGBTQ+ identification, particularly in the relationship between gender identity/expression and medical diagnoses. Welcome Drew!
MSU Sociology welcomes PhD student Hannah Pierson
August 10, 2021
Hannah Pierson is an incoming graduate student who has worked on research on racial infant mortalities disparities and health care inequality. Welcome, Hannah!
MSU Sociology welcomes PhD student Sam Safford
August 9, 2021
Sam Safford is an incoming graduate student working in the research area of Health and Medicine. We are excited to welcome Sam to MSU!
From Michigan to Yerevan: a photo journey through street art
August 6, 2021 - Inna Mirzoyan
Sociology doctoral student Inna Mirzoyan is currently in Armenia on a Fulbright Award researching migration from Armenia to Los Angeles. This is her blog post published by Repatarmenia.org.
Dr. stef shuster wins the Donald W. Light Award for Applied or Public Practice of Medical Sociology
August 3, 2021 - Karessa Weir
MSU Sociology Assistant Professor stef shuster's article "Performing Informed Consent in Transgender Medicine" published in Social Science & Medicine has received the 2021 Donald W. Light Award for applied medical sociology from the American Sociological Association Medical Sociology section.
Diversity Spotlight: Anthony Ianni
July 26, 2021 - Liz Schondelmayer
Anthony Ianni is an MSU Sociology Alumnus and an advocate for people with autism. A former award-winning basketball player, and change agent, Ianni is a motivational speaker who works with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights and Autism Alliance of Michigan to provide hope and inspiration to people in the autism community.
Dr. Xuefei Ren selected as a Public Intellectuals Program VII Fellow
July 13, 2021
Dr. Ren, Associate Professor of Sociology, was selected as part of the seventh cohort by the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations.
MSU Sociology seeking applicants for Assistant/Associate Professor of sexual and gender minority (SGM) health
July 6, 2021
The Department of Sociology at Michigan State University (MSU) seeks candidates for a tenure-system Assistant or Associate Professor position in sociology of health and medicine. As part of an initiative within the College of Social Science, this position will strengthen the leadership in the emerging MSU Consortium for Sexual and Gender Minority Health, which is housed in the School of Social Work. The 9-month academic year position begins on August 16, 2022.
The widespread and unjust drinking water and clean water crisis in the United States
June 25, 2021 - Stephen Gasteyer and J. Tom Mueller
MSU Sociology Associate Professor Stephen Gasteyer, together with Utah State University's J. Tom Mueller, has published an article in Nature Communications documenting the full scope of water hardship in the United States and showing evidence of a regionally-clustered, socially unequal nationwide household water crisis.
Health disadvantages of LGB communities increase among younger generations
June 22, 2021
While the LGBTQ+ community has seen significant advancements in legal rights, political representation and social acceptance over recent years, mental and physical health disparities still exist for queer Americans - and are even worse among younger generations, says a new study by MSU Sociology Professor Dr. Hui Liu.
Dr. Jennifer Carrera wins the Practice & Outreach Award
June 21, 2021
Dr. Carrera, Assistant Professor of Sociology, is one of two winners of the award, given by the Environmental Sociology section of the American Sociological Association.
Diversity Champion: Dr. Stephanie Nawyn
June 16, 2021 - Liz Schondelmayer
Dr. Stephanie Nawyn joined MSU's faculty in 2006, bringing with her a passion for humanitarianism that included rigorous research into the experiences of refugees and the people that provide them assistance. A 2013-14 Fulbright Scholar, Dr. Nawyn is also the Co-director of Academic Programs at the MSU Center for Gender in Global Context .
MSU Sociology Seeking Two Fixed-Term Faculty Members
June 10, 2021
MSU Sociology is currently seeking applications for two Fixed-Term Faculty positions for the 2021-2022 academic year.
Reclaiming Space: The Narratives of Female Doctoral Students of Color
May 26, 2021 - Angelica Ruvalcaba, Madeline Nash, Jennifer Lai and Jihan Mohammed
Four MSU Sociology PhD students have shared their experiences as Female Doctoral Students of Color in this new essay published in the journal Women, Gender, and Families of Color.
Dr. Soma Chaudhuri named Sociology Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator
May 17, 2021
Dr. Soma Chaudhuri, Associate Professor of Sociology, has been named the Department of Sociology's first Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator. She begins her work this week.
Doctors treating trans youth grapple with uncertainty, lack of training
May 11, 2021 - Dr. stef shuster, Assistant Professor of Sociology and Lyman Briggs College
In this article for The Conversation, Dr. stef shuster discusses their upcoming book and the lack of scientific evidence that exists to support the use of current trans medical treatments, therapy or decision-making that meets evidence-based standards.
Dr. Monique Kelly awarded a Partnership for Innovative Research in Africa Grant
April 28, 2021 - Karessa Weir
Dr. Kelly's project is entitled "Race/Ethnicity and the Question of Postcolonial Citizenship: A Comparative Study of East Africa and the Anglophone Caribbean."
Faculty voice: Starting the dialogue
April 27, 2021 - Stephen Gasteyer
Stephen Gasteyer is an associate professor in the Department of Sociology and MSU AgBioResearch. Recently, Gasteyer participated in MSU Dialogues, an intergroup dialogue program for students, faculty and staff that brings together people from different identity groups and aims to equip participants with the tools to engage in conversation (rather than debate) and to facilitate understanding regarding commonalities and differences by examining the impact of social inequalities.
MSU Sociology PhD student Mark Suchyta earns College Graduate Teaching Award
April 26, 2021 - Karessa Weir
Mark Suchyta knew even as an undergraduate that he wanted to be a university professor. Now about to complete his PhD, Suchyta’s focus, determination and innovation have earned him the College of Social Science’s Graduate Student Teaching Award for 2020-2021.
Please join us in welcoming the incoming class of MSU Sociology PhD students
April 23, 2021
We are proud to announce the incoming class of sociology graduate students for fall 2021. This is a highly qualified group, characterized by significant accomplishments and diverse backgrounds. All three are interested various aspects of the sociology of health and medicine.
The intersection of race, gender and marital loss in predicting dementia risk
April 23, 2021 - Liz Schondelmayer
New research from MSU sociologists Dr. Zhenmei Zhang (lead researcher) and Dr. Hui Liu, together with MSU alumna and assistant professor of sociology at Texas Tech University, Seung-won Emily Choi, explores the connection between marital dissolution and dementia, paying special attention to the intersection of race and gender.
MSU Sociology Outstanding Senior: Daisy Genson
April 20, 2021
MSU Sociology senior Daisy Genson has been named the Outstanding Senior for 2021. Daisy is graduating from the Honors College with High Honor.
MSU Sociology undergraduate Carrie Nielsen wins all-university excellence award
April 19, 2021
Sophomore Carrie Nielsen received the Ruth Hamilton Award for high-level achievement in coursework, co-curricular activities and extra-curricular activities.
MSU Sociology celebrates the achievements made by faculty, students, alumni, emeriti faculty and staff for 2020-2021
April 19, 2021
Congratulations to all for the awards, promotions, publications, new jobs and personal successes you've managed to achieve in this unprecedented time.
MSU Sociology Associate Professor Awarded a Fulbright Fellowship
April 12, 2021
Dr. Brendan Mullan will use his Spring 2022 four-month Fulbright Fellowship at the University of the Aegean in Greece to develop and expand his research agenda on the demography of inequality in Greece.
Summer 2021 Online Courses Now Available
April 7, 2021
MSU Sociology is happy to announce a full list of Summer 2021 Online Courses are now available.
Jihan Mohammed wins Best Graduate Paper Award
April 2, 2021
MSU Sociology PhD student Jihan Mohammed has been awarded the Best Graduate Student Paper Award from the Muslim Studies Student Research Showcase.
Trans Visibility Day Statement from MSU Sociology
March 31, 2021
Today is Transgender Day of Visibility! The MSU Sociology Departments stands in support of our trans and nonbinary MSU students, faculty and alum.
MSU Sociology Supports the Asian American Community
March 19, 2021
The MSU Sociology Department stands in solidarity with all Asian Pacific Islander Desi Americans (APIDA) and the larger Asian community after the recent shootings in Atlanta.
Dr. Monique Kelly hired as new MSU SOC Assistant Professor
March 17, 2021
Currently a Dean's Research Associate, Dr. Kelly's research broadly focuses on racial and ethnic identities, attitudes, and inequality, as well as on immigration processes connected to those social dynamics.
Dr. Wynne Wright recognized for promoting international understanding
March 15, 2021 - Karessa Weir
Michigan State University International Studies and Programs has presented Dr. Wynne Wright with a Special Recognition Award for Promoting International Understanding.
MSU, College of Social Science remembers former trustee Barbara Sawyer-Koch
March 9, 2021 - Karessa Weir
The College of Social Science joins the entire Michigan State University community in remembering alumna, trustee emerita and philanthropist Barbara Sawyer-Koch, 72, who died March 6, 2021.
A remedy for COVID-19 learning loss?
February 23, 2021 - Kim Ward
Dr. Barbara Schneider, John A. Hannah University Distinguished Professor in the MSU’s College of Education and the Department of Sociology, said the results will turn science education on its head.
Diversity Spotlight: Dr. Philip Hart
February 17, 2021 - Liz Schondelmayer
MSU Sociology alumnus Dr. Philip Hart epitomizes what it means to be a social scientist: through his work as a city planner, filmmaker, lecturer, and activist, Dr. Hart has had a successful career of transforming the human experience and inspiring leaders.
MSU Department of Sociology Statement on the Events of January 6, 2021
January 29, 2021
What we witnessed in the US Capitol on January 6, 2021 is nothing short of a violent attempt to overthrow the valid results of a fair, legal election and prevent the peaceful transfer of power in our country. Emboldened by a virulently racist President (and his closest enablers) and intoxicated with the dangerous elixir of rage and misinformation, coordinated, faux-paramilitary groups stormed the Capitol in a desperate attempt to defend our country’s white supremacist order. The acts of violence perpetrated during the storming of the US Capital are abhorrent and should not—will not—be tolerated or viewed as anything other than domestic terrorism.
Dr. stef shuster awarded a HARP grant
January 20, 2021
Dr. stef shuster, Assistant Professor of Sociology and Lyman Briggs, has been awarded a HARP grant in relation to a book they are publishing this June.
MSU Sociology Professor Steven Gold publishes new book on Jewish migration
January 13, 2021
"Wandering Jews: Global Jewish Migration" was edited by Dr. Steven Gold, professor and graduate program director for MSU Sociology. It provides readers with a broader understanding of the Jewish experience in the United States and elsewhere.
‘These Were Haunting Events’: Researchers Study Migrant Precarity During Pandemic in US, India
January 5, 2021 - Anna Zarra Aldrick, University of Connecticut Office of the Vice President of Research
An interdisciplinary team of researchers, including MSU Assistant Professor of Sociology Dr. Soma Chaudhuri, is developing a set of research tools that will help understand the multiple dimensions of precarity faced by migrant workers, and to recommend ways that policymakers can ease those burdens. The two-year project is funded by the Social Science Research Council.
Social Justice and Covid-19: A series of research published by Dr. Stacy Smith
December 17, 2020
Assistant Sociology Professor Dr. Stacy Smith has published three articles in what is some of the first Sociological work published on the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Sociology PhD student finds that sense of place matters in energy development
December 3, 2020
MSU Sociology PhD student Mark Suchyta has published research in Energy Research & Social Science which shows that a sense of place can predict beliefs about energy development in Pennsylvania's Marcellus Shale.
Lesbian, gay, bisexual communities more at-risk for dementia, study finds
November 18, 2020 - Caroline Brooks
MSU Sociology's Drs. Ning Hsieh and Hui Liu, along with PhD student Wen-Hua (Zoey) Lai, have published a study showing lesbian, gay and bisexual people are more vulnerable to one of the fastest-growing health concerns in the country - dementia.
Iraqi Kurds: The dream of nation state
October 26, 2020
MSU Sociology PhD student Jihan Mohammed has published research on why the 2017 Kurdish independence referendum failed.
Examining Race in Jamaica: How Racial Category and Skin Color Structure Social Inequality
October 12, 2020
Monique D.A. Kelly, MSU Sociology Dean's Research Associate, has published her research challenging long-held assumptions that marginalize race with regards to social inequality in Jamaica.
The Importance of International Graduate Students to MSU Sociology
October 11, 2020 - Dr. Aaron McCright, Professor of Sociology
At the dawn of the 21st Century, we know more than ever that our work lives, labor markets, and seemingly local economies are integrated into a global economic system. As the leading state university and land-grant institution in Michigan, we must do all we can to provide our undergraduate and graduate students with challenging and effective learning experiences so that—whether they immediate enter labor markets and continue on with advanced training upon receipt of their degrees—we help them achieve success in fulfilling and impactful careers within the global economy.
Interdisciplinary Team at MSU Secures $3.2M National Science Foundation Convergence Grant to Empower Off-grid Communities
October 7, 2020 - Diane Huhn and Karessa Weir
Michigan State University Researcher Emilio Moran and Sociology Chair Aaron McCright will lead a team in the development of a convergent framework offering non-dam hydropower as a sustainable energy solution for off-grid communities while empowering and engaging residents throughout the process.
Dr. stef shuster named Diversity Champion
October 6, 2020
Diversity Champions epitomize unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. They do this in their research and scholarly agenda, across our academic programs and at varying administrative levels. In short, “Diversity Champions” work to create a better future or world for all. Dr. stef shuster’s work in understanding transgender identity shows their contributions to recognizing LGBTQ+ communities for their distinctive gendered experiences and complexities.
NSF grant to help power and empower those off grid
September 30, 2020 - Sue Nichols
Dr. Aaron McCright, Professor and Chair of Sociology, is part of a multi-disciplinary team awarded $3.2 million from the National Science Foundation to deliver renewable energy to off-grid communities.
The connection between human health & wildlife trade and consumption
September 21, 2020 - Liz Schondelmayer
Since the start of the COVID-19 crisis, speculation about the virus’s origins has led many to question the safety and ethics surrounding worldwide wildlife trade and consumption. For example, the overcrowded and often unhygienic conditions present in wet markets have caused concern among experts for human health repercussions.
Sociology Experts Available to Discuss the Election
September 8, 2020
MSU Sociology is proud to offer the expertise of Chair Aaron McCright and Professor Steven Gold regarding the 2020 election
A Welcome Message from Chair Aaron McCright
September 1, 2020
On behalf of the faculty, staff, and graduate students in the Department of Sociology, I welcome you all—new and returning students alike—into our (virtual) Spartan Community!
Dr. Carl Taylor named Diversity Champion
August 21, 2020
Sociology Professor Emeritus Dr. Carl Taylor has extensive experience in field research aimed at the reduction of violence involving American youth. He has worked with communities, foundations and government agencies in understanding gangs, youth culture, and violence. Dr. Taylor has established a national reputation as an ethnographer and takes pride in having worked in some of the most isolated and distressed communities in the nation, giving him a strong understanding of the problems facing many neighborhoods in urban America.
Dr. Sarah Prior publishes new article in Violence Against Women
August 17, 2020
Dr. Sarah Prior, Assistant Professor of Sociology, has published an article on "Women's Pornography Consumption, Alcohol Use, and Sexual Victimization" which explores female sexual victimization and its relationship with pornography consumption and alcohol use.
$1M grant from Luce Foundation launches interdisciplinary program on Mekong sustainability
July 24, 2020 - Lois Furry and Amanda Flaim
Sociology professor Amanda Flaim is leading a team of interdisciplinary researchers working to foster environmental justice in Southeast Asia with a $1 million grant from the Henry Luce Foundation.
MSU Sociology improves in global ranking
July 20, 2020
In the newly announced Global Rankings of Academic Subjects 2020, MSU Sociology has improved 7 positions to No. 29.
MSU alumnus advocates solutions-oriented approach to fighting racism and promoting social justice
July 16, 2020 - Russ White
Phil Hart earned master’s and Ph.D. degrees in sociology in 1970 and 1974 respectively from MSU’s College of Social Science. Hart has dedicated his career to studying race in America through the lenses of sociology, urban planning, and social justice. He's authored more than 100 books and articles on race in America and has served as a leader both on campus and around the country on race-related initiatives.
Dr. Sandy Marquart-Pyatt wins ASA ESS Teaching and Mentorship Award
July 6, 2020
Sociology Professor Sandy Marquart-Pyatt is this year’s winner of the American Sociological Association Section on Environmental Sociology’s Teaching and Mentorship Award.
Dr. stef shuster: Uniting STEM and social science for the LGBTQ+ community
June 25, 2020 - Liz Schondelmayer
Social science research requires innovation and critical thinking. This is why, despite only being at Michigan State University for two years, sociologist Dr. stef shuster has emerged as a campus leader studying the intersection of sexual and gender minority experiences and health.
What's different about this movement against police brutality
June 19, 2020 - Dr. Carl Taylor
While observing recent protests, a voice explained to me, "This is the new world order." It was a young denizen from the third city, an underground culture invisible to the mainstream. Is this the world order that I had heard of? Conspiracies and all, storm troopers, dictators, and worse. The end of democracy.
MSU Sociology PhD alumni have new publications
June 5, 2020
MSU Sociology PhD alumni Kelly Birch Maginot (2019) and Breanne Grace (2013) both have publications in the recent journal Ethnic and Racial Studies.
We Must Heal Our Nation's Poisoned Soul
June 5, 2020 - Dr. Aaron McCright, Chair of Sociology
I would like to offer the following thoughts on the current moment in our country’s history.
Ning Hsieh: Addressing gaps in LGBTQ+ healthcare
June 3, 2020 - Liz Schondelmayer
Dr. Ning Hsieh, a Michigan State University sociologist, is dedicated to knocking down barriers keeping LGBTQ+ Americans from accessing and receiving quality health care. Through exposing disparities and creating solutions, she plays an instrumental role in creating a better healthcare system for sexual and gender minorities.
Sociology PhD alumnus featured on PBS NewsMakers
May 11, 2020
Dr. Cedric Taylor, who earned his PhD in Sociology from MSU in 2011, was featured in the PBS NewsMakers interview for his movie "Nor Any Drop to Drink" which follows the Flint water crisis.
Sociology PhD student Inna Mirzoyan receives a Fulbright Award to study in Armenia
April 13, 2020
Mirzoyan's research focuses on what happens to migrants after they leave their home countries. She will be working both in Armenia and then in Los Angeles' Armenia-American communities.
MSU sociologists discover “loneliness gap” for older LGB Americans in midst of COVID-19 isolation
April 10, 2020 - Liz Schondelmayer
In the midst of the international trend towards social isolation in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, many people are finding themselves feeling lonely. For those already struggling with loneliness, this can be an especially trying time.
SOC PhD student Kayleigh Ward shared her experiences researching in Japan
April 6, 2020
Kayleigh Ward's research interests focus mainly on community development and sustainability in post-disaster communities, especially in Miyagi, Japan.
Images from the 2020 Health, Medicine and Society Forum
March 30, 2020
Images from the 2020 Health, Medicine and Society Forum hosted by MSU Sociology on Feb. 13, 2020. Photography by Jackie Hawthorne.
Sociology Offering Summer Online Courses
March 24, 2020
The MSU Department of Sociology is pleased to offer a wide variety of completely online summer courses for undergraduates.
SOC Memo on Key University Policies
March 16, 2020
This is a newly codified set of behavioral expectations in the College and a recently revised University protocol for how key units/leadership coordinate when there is a reported violation of our Policy on Relationship Violence and Sexual Misconduct or our Anti-Discrimination Policy.
An Update from the Department of Sociology in relation to the Coronavirus
March 12, 2020
Sociology Chair Dr. Aaron McCright has provided an update on the operation of the Department in regards to the coronavirus.
MSU Coronavirus Updates
March 11, 2020
Effective at noon March 11, MSU is suspending face-to-face instruction in classroom settings and moving to virtual instruction. We are continuing to work with faculty and staff on laboratory and performance classes, and the university will provide additional guidance. This suspension of in-person classes will last until April 20.
Toxic Masculinity is Bad for Men
March 10, 2020 - Caroline Brooks
The belief that “real men” must be strong, tough and independent may be a detriment to their social needs later in life. A study co-authored by stef shuster, Michigan State University sociologist, found that men who endorse hegemonic ideals of masculinity — or “toxic masculinity” — can become socially isolated as they age, impacting their health, well-being and overall happiness.
Sociology Faculty and Students Awards announced
March 6, 2020
MSU Sociology is pleased to announce a number of awards, fellowships and accolades for our community this spring.
Census Expert: The 2020 count is the most political he’s ever seen and the implications will last decades.
February 28, 2020 - Karessa Weir
Since he was an undergraduate at MSU in 1970, Dr. Bill O’Hare has played an active role in the U.S. Census, the national effort every 10 years to count each person in the United States. The Census is more than just a data lover’s dream – it determines how federal taxes and Congressional seats are apportioned.
Regan Kania promoted to Senior Academic Specialist
February 14, 2020
The Sociology Academic Advisor will be honored at a ceremony with MSU President Stanley and Provost Sullivan on Thursday, Feb. 13.
Dr. Xuefei Ren receives HARP grant to study urban redevelopment
February 13, 2020 - Karessa Weir
The proposal "Whose City? Urban Redevelopment in China, India, Brazil and the U.S." was selected for $25,000 in funding.
Dr. Denton Morrison (1932-2019) shares his life story
February 7, 2020
Dr. Denton "Spud" Morrison was Professor of Sociology at Michigan State University from 1964-1990 as well as serving at the Michigan Agricultural Experiment Station. Prior to his death in December, 2019, Dr. Morrison had penned his own obituary to share with his colleagues and professional networks.
The Quarantine of a Megacity: China’s Struggle Over the Coronavirus Epidemic
February 4, 2020 - Xuefei Ren
Dr. Xuefei Ren writes about China's response to the recent Coronavirus outbreak for The Urban Now: International Journal of Urban and Regional Research.
2020 Research Symposium Call for Presenters
January 31, 2020
Announcing the 2020 Sociology Research Symposium Call for Presenters! We invite all faculty, undergraduate, and graduate students to give a five-minute TED-style talk on ongoing or completed research at our symposium April 17.
Meet Sociology's Newest Assistant Professor Molly Copeland
January 22, 2020 - Karessa Weir
MSU Sociology is pleased to announce the hiring of a new assistant professor in our Health and Medicine signature area. Ms. Molly Copeland is currently a PhD candidate in Sociology at Duke University and expects to receive her PhD in May 2020. Her research examines how connections with others relate to health disparities through gendered processes.
Dr. stef shuster discusses the role of transgender studies in the wider world of sociology
January 17, 2020
The essay "Carving Out a Niche or Finding a Place at the Table? The Sociology of Transgender Studies" was published in Contemporary Sociology and highlighted by the American Sociological Association's January newsletter.
Dr. Barbara Schneider's latest book shows engaged learning works
January 15, 2020
Students in the U.S. and Finland participating in a new project-based learning model are not only learning more, but becoming more engaged in class, research from Michigan State University shows.
Sociology PhD Alum Wins ASA Award
January 13, 2020
Dr. Cameron Whitley, Sociology PhD alumnus and assistant professor of Sociology at Western Washington University has been awarded a grant from the American Sociological Association for work he will do in Uruguay.
Dr. Barbara Schneider named top influencer in education policy
January 9, 2020
Dr. Barbara Schneider, John A. Hannah University Distinguished Professor of Education and Sociology, is among five Michigan State University faculty who earned national recognition for their influential research in the field of education.
MSU Sociology/ Animal Studies dominate latest HER issue
January 7, 2020
Three of the seven substantive papers in the current issue of Human Ecology Review are by MSU Animal Studies current or former students, two of those are Sociology PhD alums.
Dr. Denton "Spud" Morrison, Sociology Professor Emeritus, has died
January 7, 2020
Dr. Denton "Spud" Morrison served as Professor of Sociology at Michigan State University from 1964-1990. As a sociologist, Dr. Morrison specialized in the study of environmental sociology, social movements and research methods.
Dr. Larry Busch, University Distinguished Professor Emeritus, has died at age 74
January 3, 2020 - Karessa Weir
With close family by his side, Dr. Lawrence “Larry” Busch, longtime University Distinguished Professor of Sociology, passed away in the evening of Saturday December 28, 2019 from long-term illness.
All global sustainability is local: Dr. Tom Dietz among researchers featured in 'Nature'
January 2, 2020 - Sue Nichols
In a “Nature” cover story, Dr. Tom Dietz, Professor of Sociology and Dr. Jianguo "Jack" Liu of MSU’s Center for Systems Integration and Sustainability use groundbreaking methods to discover sustainability, like politics, is local.
PhD candidate Jihan Mohammed chosen for first Arab Center for Research & Policy Studies Graduate Winter School
January 2, 2020 - Karessa Weir
Mohammed is travelling to Qatar for an intensive 10-day training program designed for PhD candidates and early career scholars.
Sociology alum Dr. Amy Fitzgerald discusses Canada's animal protection policies in new article
December 31, 2019 - Karessa Weir
Now an associate professor at the University of Windsor, Dr. Fitzgerald writes about new dedicated public animal protection force in Ontario and how it can impact lives of animals across Canada for the better.
Christian Ramirez's research to be published in Rio Bravo: A Journal of the Borderlands
December 17, 2019
Sociology PhD student Christian Ramirez explores the biases behind migration sociological research in his latest publication "Decolonizing Migration Studies: A Chicanx Studies Perspective and Critique of Colonial Sociological Origins" which will appear in the upcoming journal Rio Bravo: A Journal of the Borderlands.
Sociology professors are working to overcome barriers to healthcare for LGBTQ people of color
December 16, 2019 - Karessa Weir
Racial minorities as well as sexual minorities both face different but similar barriers to healthcare. But few studies show what happens with both intersect for LGBTQ people of color.
Sociology PhD student winner of Gallin Award
December 13, 2019
Sociology PhD student Inna Mirzoyan has been selected as the winner of this year's Rita Gallin Award for Best Graduate Paper.
Fall Commencement: Sociology student to represent College
December 11, 2019 - Karessa Weir
Sociology senior Lynnea Miller will be representing the Department of Sociology as the official College of Social Science flag bearer at the fall undergraduate commencement ceremony. The undergraduate ceremonies for College of Social Science take place at 10 a.m. Saturday Dec. 14 at the Jack Breslin Student Events Center.
Sociology PhD Applications are due Dec. 15
December 4, 2019
Applications for the Fall 2020 Sociology PhD Program at Michigan State University will be accepted until Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019.
MSU Department of Sociology Statement of Solidarity on January 15, 2016
January 15, 2016
We, Faculty in the Department of Sociology, are in solidarity with students, faculty, and staff of color, immigrants, Jews, LGBTQ people, Muslims, people with lives of difference, the undocumented, women, people with disabilities, and all who support justice, inclusion, and equality.