Eastern Illinois University Dept. of Sociology, Anthropology, & Criminology

09/15/2026

Thank you to those who stopped by the Open House last week! We were so glad to see those who were interested in learning about our program! If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to us, and we'll be happy to assist!

05/10/2026

🎓 Spotlight on Summer 2026 graduate Miracle Langston (pictured front row center)!

Miracle earned her degree in Criminology & Criminal Justice from the Eastern Illinois University Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology. She also served as Vice President of the Criminal Justice Club in Spring 2025 and President in Fall 2025! Miracle especially enjoyed Professor Oder’s classes because they made learning fun, and she’s looking forward to traveling throughout the Midwest this year while earning money along the way. 🚗✨

05/10/2026

🎓 Spotlight on Spring 2026 graduate Paige Parmenter!

Paige graduated from Eastern Illinois University Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology with a major in Criminology & Criminal Justice. She's also the recipient of the Wood Award, the department's highest student honor! She loved the support and mentorship from the department’s professors and is excited for her upcoming study abroad trip to Italy this summer! ✈️🌍

05/10/2026

Huge congratulations to the Class of 2026! Here are some pictures of our graduates (and faculty from the department) from yesterday!! We are so proud of you all!! 🥳🤩😭👏

05/04/2026

Make sure to grab your snacks and treats in the hallway! Good luck on your finals!! 💪💪💪

04/29/2026

I spy our alum, Chase Piers! Way to go, Chase, and congratulations!! 🥳

Congratulations to our MSW students Melissa Walker Salyards, Tami Clymer, Chase Piers, and Elora Brandon on receiving the Illinois Rural Health Association Behavioral Health Workforce Development Scholarship. These scholarships support students who plan to practice in rural, medically underserved communities across Illinois, helping address critical workforce shortages in behavioral health.

04/29/2026

Four of our faculty members, Dr. Darren Hendrickson, Dr. William Lovekamp, Dr. Wade Smith, and Dr. Jennifer Stevens, were recognized at the Years of Service Reception 2026 for their commitment, hard work, and lasting contributions to our campus community. Thank you for the years you’ve invested in our students and programs! 🤩

04/29/2026

Our Sociology, Anthropology, and Criminology students are turning ideas into impact!

In Dr. Steven’s capstone class, students presented their research and campaigns aimed at busting common crime myths. Meanwhile, students from Dr. Smith’s class showcased their work at Student Research and Creative Activity Day, examining policies that affect racial equality.

📸 Check out some moments of them presenting their hard work and sharing their insights.

04/24/2026

Our alum, Kaylan Ottosen, graduated from the police academy and received the academy's highest honor, the Ervin H. Warren award for her excellence! Congratulations, Deputy Ottosen!! We can't be prouder! 🥳👏

Deputy Kaylan Ottosen and 91 of her fellow law enforcement officers graduated the police academy today! She was the recipient of the Ervin H. Warren award, which is the academy’s highest honor and is based on academic achievement, integrity, conduct, and moral character. It’s voted upon by staff, instructors, and fellow students. We are very proud of you Deputy Ottosen and we are happy to have you on our team.

04/24/2026

Swing by our Grab ‘n Go snack tables next week and fuel up for success! We’ve got snacks, drinks, and quick pick-me-ups to keep you focused and energized through the finals week!