Department of Sociology Awards

Alpha Kappa Delta 

Alpha Kappa Delta is an International Honor Society in Sociology. To be admitted:

1. You must be an officially declared sociology major/minor, justice studies major/minor or gerontology minor or certificate candidate.
2. You must have completed at least 60 credit hours
3. You must have an overall GPA of at least 3.0 (B)
4. You must have a GPA of 3.33 in at least four regular sociology courses (two of which must have been taken at Rhode Island College) and two of which must be at the 300/400 level (exclusive of pass/fail).
5. You must apply in Spring Semester when notice is circulated in classes or contact the department chair.​

Harold Sweet Award in Gerontology

This award is given annually to an outstanding gerontology student who has maintained a 3.0 average and demonstrated excellence in the Gerontology Program. Eligible students should submit written statements to outline their academic achievements, employment activities, volunteer services and/or service to the college that pertain to gerontology and describe the impact the Gerontology Program has had on their involvement with and attitudes toward older adults. Apply to the coordinator of the Gerontology Program.

Rachel Filinson Award in Sociology

This award recognizes an outstanding sociology major who will graduate in May or who has graduated the previous January or August. The award is bestowed at the Annual Cap and Gown Ceremony in early May. To qualify you must have an overall GPA of 3.25 or above and a 3.25 or above in sociology courses; and you must have made concrete contributions that demonstrate leadership, dedication and commitment through service to the Department of Sociology, Rhode Island College and/or the community. A committee of faculty will choose from among eligible students for consideration. Contact the department chair to apply. 

Mary Ann Hawkes Award in Justice Studies 

This award honors an outstanding justice studies major who graduated the previous January or will graduate in May. The award is bestowed at the Annual Cap and Gown Ceremony in early May. To qualify, you must have an overall GPA of 3.0 (B) or above and a 3.33 GPA or above in courses included in the Justice Studies Program. In addition, you must have demonstrated recognition of and concern for national, regional or local problems of justice and their solutions. Active involvement during the undergraduate years is expected. A committee of faculty will choose from among eligible students for consideration. Apply to the director of the Justice Studies Program.