Outstanding Sociology Undergraduate Award: Emily Tingle

Emily is a double major in Sociology and Political Science who was recently the recipient of a 2020 Office for Research and Economic Development Research Award for students who advance the university's research mission.  She presented her research at three conferences this semester, and recently defended her original Honors Thesis entitled "Colorblind Racism and White Women’s Education Activism in the South."  She has the second highest GPA in her cohort of Sociology majors, and we are thrilled to be welcoming her back to join the MSU Sociology graduate program in the Fall.  Congratulations on being this year's outstanding undergraduate!

Shane Hicks Outstanding Criminology Undergraduate Award: Javontae Spivey

The Shane Hicks Criminology Award is given each year to an undergraduate criminology major nominated and voted on by the Criminology faculty in recognition for their outstanding academic achievement and their passion for the field of criminology.  The award is named after Shane Hicks, a Fall 2008 graduate of the Department of Sociology who went on to be admitted to the Master's program here and was studying Criminology when he died suddenly.  The award is named after Shane to honor his legacy of hard-work, academic success, and passion for Criminology.

This year's award goes to Javontae Spivey.  Faculty applaud Vontae’s ability to think deeply about Criminological theory and concepts, describe him as a diligent student with an excellent GPA, a meaningful and thoughtful contributor to class discussion, and a charismatic and helpful classmate.  Vontae has also distinguished himself as a longtime member of the Sociological Student Society (SSA), through which it is clear to faculty and students who work with him how much he cares about others and contributing to the community in a positive way.  Congratulations, Vontae!