Student research. We created the Wade Smith Research Award, given each fall to a student pursuing original research on racial justice or a closely related topic.
Tenure-Track faculty mentoring. We initiated a formalized mentoring program for all tenure-track faculty. Every tenure-track faculty member is matched with a mentor within and outside the sociology department. In the first year, there is a schedule for new faculty mentoring, including an orientation and 6-month follow-up meeting with tenured faculty. We also commit to sponsor a visitor during each tenure-track faculty member's first three years to build professional network and get feedback on work.
Student mentoring. The Department hosts a range of events mixers to incorporate students into the department and create community. This is facilitated by our undergraduate social committee. Recent events include: sociologically relevent film screenings, practice talks for thesis students, and end-of-term student-faculty mixers.
Professional development. We initiated a graduate student colloquium series. We host a tenure-track faculty writing group. We support postdoctoral fellows through colloquia and one-on-one mentoring.
Research related to Inclusion and Social Justice. The Department is united in its focus diversity, inclusion, and social inequality. A description of faculty research projects can be found on each faculty member's website.