This year’s theme is: Revisiting Democracy: Facts, Fears and Myths about the Threats to American Democracy

This theme is meant to set a contemplative and profound mood of the meeting as we recognize our 52nd Annual Conference. The MSSA was formed in 1975 to not only provide professional support to its members but to also foster engagement among the future generation of sociologists. I implore each of us to meditate on what democracy means in the 21st century and why it is important in maintaining an inclusive and empowered society. I encourage you to consider organizing a panel discussion, paper session, poster session, roundtable, or workshop that incorporates this year’s theme. You may propose sociological or interdisciplinary panels and sessions – all topics are welcome.

Please submit your session no later than February 1, 2026. Send your ideas for organizing a session to mssaprogramchair@midsouthsoc.org. Include a brief description (and a working title if you have one), type of session, whether you would prefer an online or in-person session, and your contact information. I eagerly anticipate collaborating with you to create a successful and inspiring conference!

Types of Sessions:
Panel Session: A discussion focused on a particular topic guided by a group of expert panelists.
Paper Session: 3-5 individuals present their research followed by a Q&A session.
Poster Session: Individual presenters display a poster version of their research and provide a brief description to viewers.
Roundtable: Conducted at a round table, intended to bring together individuals interested in a particular topic to discuss ideas, ongoing research, or ask questions.
Workshop: Directed sessions with the goal of participatory learning.

The video recording of our 2025 Summer Webinar, “Publishing in Sociological Spectrum” is now available. It’s a great resource for graduate students and junior faculty … or anyone interested in learning more about the publishing process. You do not need to be a member to watch.

WATCH HERE 

Jessica Pardee, MSSA President
Giselle Greenidge, MSSA President-Elect
Marcus Brooks, MSSA Secretary-Treasurer

The Mid-South Sociological Association Inc. (MSSA), founded in 1975, is a 501-C-(3) non-profit organization providing both professional support to, and a forum for sociologists who teach, conduct research and reside in the Mid-South region of the US. Through its publications, annual conference, academic support and collegial networks, MSSA. promotes the advancement of sociological research, the diffusion of knowledge, innovative service and teaching.  From its inception, MSSA, Inc has been and continues to be committed to mentoring and enabling the growth of the next generation of sociologists in the value of high-quality research and engagement, and ethical, professional service.

The Mid-South Sociological Association Inc. embraces diversity and promotes inclusion by recruiting, including, and valuing people of all races, genders and gender identities, sexualities, ethnicities, religions, economic and employment statuses, abilities, and other dimensions. The MSSA celebrates all expressions of diversity and identity and strives to provide an environment conducive to free expression of ideas without fear of judgment in any way. Moreover, the MSSA does not tolerate any action from any member or conference participant that encourages or promotes hatred and/or intolerance in any form. Further, to the extent that the Board determines that it is not detrimental to the best interests (financial and otherwise) of the association, the MSSA will use the economic power of the annual conferences and other activities to select locations and enter into agreements with businesses that have policies and practices that reflect the values of the MSSA.