PUTTING SOCIOLOGY TO WORK
FOR A MORE EQUITABLE AND
SUSTAINABLE SOCIETY
ANNUAL MEETING AND CONFERENCE
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6th, 2026
Oklahoma State University
Student Union (4th Floor)
301 Student Union Rd Stillwater OK, 74078
To have the greatest impact, we must focus on solutions to pressing social issues, prioritizing externally engaged and interdisciplinary research, in pursuit of a more equitable and sustainable society.
PARTICIPATE IN THE FOLLOWING:
Join OSA and attend the conference.
Keynote Speaker
Professor of Sociology | Oklahoma State University
(Interdisciplinary papers are accepted!)
(Available to undergraduate and graduate students only.)
(Available to undergraduate students only.)
It can be lonely being a sociologist in Oklahoma. Come reconnect with the community.
PAPERS AND PRESENTATIONS
We invite research papers from all disciplines, including those with an interdisciplinary focus. Any research related to social interaction, social institutions, social movements, social problems, or related topics is welcome. Please submit a paper abstract (250 words max) or panel proposal at the link below no later than October 2nd 2026.
UNDERGRADUATE/GRADUATE STUDENT
POSTER PRESENTATION CONTEST
Student poster presentations of original empirical research. (Undergraduate and/or graduate students are invited to participate. Posters/research conducted in collaboration with faculty are not eligible.)
All contest participants must pre-register for the conference and present their research the day of the conference for award consideration.
Please sign up for poster contest no later than October 2nd 2026.
Awards for the top three student posters will be given:
1st place: $75.00
2nd place: $50.00
3rd place: $25.00
UNDERGRADUATE STUDENT
ESSAY CONTEST
OSA invites essays (from undergraduate students only) that address the question: How does the sociological perspective contribute to reimagining the future of individuals, families, and communities?
The "sociological imagination" was proposed by C. Wright Mills in 1959 to illuminate the relationship between an individual's experience and the individual's social context. Over the last 65+ years, sociologists have been exploring the impact of culture, social structure, and historical events on the lives and life chances of members. How do we (or how should we) use this knowledge to reimage individuals, families, and communities in our society?
Essays should be between 600-800 words and should cite at least two credible, empirical research sources for consideration. Students do not have to attend the conference to enter the contest, but attendance is encouraged. Please submit your essay no later than October 2nd 2026.
Awards for the top three essays will be given:
First place: $75.00
Second place: $50.00
Third place: $25.00
2026 Conference Program Committee
2026 OSA President:
Jericho R. McElroy, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Department of Sociology
Oklahoma State University
2026-27 OSA Treasurer:
Sarah V. Fry, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
School of Arts & Sciences
Northwestern Oklahoma State University
2027 OSA President-Elect:
Peyman Hekmatpour, Ph.D.
Teaching Assistant Professor
Department of Sociology
Oklahoma State University - Tulsa