Sociology Association Continues Diversity Criteria for Awards

Ballots were distributed last month for leadership positions at the American Sociological Association. The association's award criteria continue to include explicit references to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The Environmental Sociology Teaching and Mentorship Award recognizes faculty who demonstrate dedication to teaching through actionable attention to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

A separate award notice states that women, people of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people with disabilities are especially encouraged to submit.

Among the past 13 presidents of the association, 11 were women and 2 were black men. Among the past 11 vice presidents, 10 were women and one was a white man. The association also seeks applications from scholars who identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color for awards advancing the sociology of science, knowledge, and technology.

The Supreme Court ruled three years ago that racial preferences in college admissions were unconstitutional. The University of Pennsylvania reached a settlement with the Trump administration and later named a new dean and executive vice president at its law school.

UCLA paid more than $6 million in a settlement after being sued by the Trump administration for allowing protesters to block Jewish students from classes. The university recently cancelled a lecture by Bari Weiss. Columbia reached a similar settlement and delayed disciplinary action against students involved in protests while continuing to accept funding from Qatar.

Public universities in North Carolina, Texas, Arizona, and Florida have established new civics programs to promote intellectual diversity.