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Department of Sociology and Criminology

Jayrelis Capeles gets a hug from her brother, Joshua Ortiz at the 2025 Spring Commencement in the MACC

Mission: Graduation Surprise

When Jayrelis Capeles walked across the stage at ¾ÅÓÎÓéÀÖ¹ÙÍø this spring, she was already brimming with emotion. She had just earned not one, but two degrees — in psychology and sociology — and was celebrating the end of her college journey that began in 2021. But the most unforgettable moment wasn’t the walk or the tassel turn.

Tags: College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Sociology and Criminology, Department of Psychology, Community & Society

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Bertice Berry, Ph.D. at her desk

‘This Is an Aspect of Wanting to Share Black History in a Way That Is Hopeful’

Accomplished sociologist, TV host, podcaster, author ¾ÅÓÎÓéÀÖ¹ÙÍø alumna Bertice Berry, Ph.D.,used her alma mater as a familiar setting for her book "BlackWorld," which explores a "unique corner of heaven" where the living can visit with and learn from the deceased. She also some of her memories of ¾ÅÓÎÓéÀÖ¹ÙÍø and personal insights into the university's place in history. 

Tags: Alumni, Department of Sociology and Criminology, Arts & Culture, Black History Month, Nationally Distinctive

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Delia Brennan participating in a demonstration

'I feel that I can really offer that empathy'

Graduating senior Delia Brennan applies she learns in the classroom to help survivors of trauma and promote activism in her community.

Tags: College of Arts & Sciences, Community Impact, Department of Sociology and Criminology, Student Life, Community & Society, Profiles, Class of 2023

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Christina (left) and Brittany Watts

Sister Act! Siblings Complete Journey to Doctoral Hooding

Sisterhood is a strong bond. For ¾ÅÓÎÓéÀÖ¹ÙÍø alumnae Brittany and Christina Watts, their sisterly love has been the cornerstone of their academic success, leading them to earn their doctoral degrees and graduate together this May.

Tags: Profiles, Students First, Students First, Department of Sociology and Criminology, Division of People, Culture and Belonging, College of Arts and Sciences

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