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Sociology Symposium Examines Social Change at a Global Tipping Point

Earlier this semester, Hartwick College hosted its second regional symposium for social scientists, bringing more than 60 participants to Golisano Hall for a day of scholarly engagement and interdisciplinary exchange. Titled Portrait of a Tipping Point: Critical Questions for Social Scientists in 2025, the event featured presentations by undergraduate and graduate students, faculty, and researchers from across Upstate New York and as far away as the University of Rzeszów in Poland.

He continued, “Gaming has the power to bring people together in fun and meaningful ways. We’re here to foster competitive excellence and create a space where every student feels they belong, whether they’re playing casually, learning something new or aiming for the top.”

Construction on the new space began during January Term (J Term) of the 2024-25 academic year. The College has since moved the club from a space on the fifth floor of Dewar into its dynamic new home, and the facility will begin hosting official league matches starting next semester.

Elena Chernyak, associate professor of sociology, co-organized this April 5 symposium. “Golisano Hall was full of great energy, and the conversations that took place all day really showed how valuable it is to have space for open, thoughtful discussions across different perspectives,” said Chernyak.

Associate Professor of Sociology Dr. Elena Chernyak

"It was inspiring to see students, faculty, and guests come together to engage with important issues like migration, inequality, and the future of democracy. I’m especially proud of our students who not only presented their research but also helped make the event happen behind the scenes."

Elena Chernyak

Associate Professor of Sociology

Giovanna Wall ’25, a sociology major with a minor in psychology and art, was one of the many Hartwick students who presented. “This symposium provided me with great insight into post-education communications,” Wall said.

Giovanna Wall ’25

“As an undergraduate student, this conference gave me experience with presenting at a higher level and allowed me to meet some more established individuals who are studying in similar fields.”

Giovanna Wall ’25

Sociology Major; Psychology and Art Minors

A new feature of this year’s symposium was the panel “The Next Step: Is Graduate School Right for Me?”, designed to help undergraduate students explore their options after graduation. The panel was facilitated by Hartwick alum Avery Piefer ’23, now a graduate student at the State University of New York at Albany, and offered practical insights into navigating the transition to graduate school.

Keynote speaker Cecilia Menjívar, professor of sociology at the University of California, Los Angeles and former president of the American Sociological Association, delivered an address centered on systemic violence and the lived experiences of immigrants within the legal and bureaucratic structures of the state. Her scholarship and insight helped set the tone for an event that emphasized both critical reflection and collaboration.

Co-organizer Zachary McKenney, assistant professor of sociology, also helped lead the event’s planning. The symposium was partly funded through the American Sociological Association Sorokin Lecture Grant and an Alpha Kappa Delta International Sociology Honor Society grant.

May 15, 2025
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