The Midwest Sociological Society, founded in 1936, is a professional organization of academic and applied sociologists as well as students of the discipline. Nearly 1,000 scholars, students, and practicing sociologists in universities, government, and business belong to the organization. Known for its accessible but rigorous meetings, the MSS encompasses nine states – Illinois, Missouri, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota, Kansas, South Dakota, and North Dakota. However, more than one-third of the members are from other parts of the nation and the world.
Founded in 1936, MSS is a membership organization of academic and applied sociologists as well as students of the discipline. About 2/3 of the members live in the Midwest and about 1/3 of the members are from other parts of the nation and the world. Membership is open to all interested in sociology.
Organized in 1936, MSS held its first annual meeting in 1937.
What We Do:
- Publish The Sociological Quarterly;
- Hold a four-day annual meeting each spring;
- Provide opportunities for leadership and committee work;
- Support a minority fellowship, several grant and award programs, and research by MSS members.
With the adoption of a long-range strategic plan, MSS is moving forward intentionally, to meet the challenges of the future.
Code of Ethics
Mirroring the American Sociological Association Code of Ethics, the Midwest Sociological Society Code of Ethics (hereafter “Code”) establishes the principles and ethical standards that guide the Society’s membership. This Code is a guideline and baseline for examining the professional activities of MSS members. These guidelines require MSS members and leaders to be honest and respectful of others in their professional activities. The Code also recognizes that MSS members need to adhere to the high standards of collegiality. Members of the MSS strive to eliminate bias in their professional activities, and they do not tolerate any forms of discrimination based on age, gender, race, socioeconomic status or origin, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, disability, health conditions, political affiliation, marital status, domestic status, parental status, or any other applicable basis proscribed by law. As a regional association, we place value on dismantling power inequalities. We engage and respect diverse experiences through all our programmatic activities and in the business of the Society.
How to Contact MSS:
Email: [email protected]
Executive Director: Jennifer Talarico
Midwest Sociological Society History:
- MSS past presidents & officers
- Past editors
- Past meeting sites
- Past service awards
- Official history by Sue Wright
The physical historical archives of the Midwest Sociological Society, including past minutes, membership lists, program books, newsletters and journals, are held at the State Historical Society of Iowa Library in Iowa City, Iowa.

