Laurel R. Davis-Delano

Laurel R. Davis-Delano is a Professor of Sociology at Springfield College, affiliated with the School of Arts and Sciences and the Department of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Criminal Justice. She holds an office in Room 313 Herbert P. Blake Hall. Her academic journey includes a Bachelor of Science from Springfield College (1984), followed by a Master of Arts (1987) and a Doctor of Philosophy (1992), both from the University of Iowa.

Her research focuses on intersections of race, gender, and sexual orientation; social inequality and media dynamics; and White American beliefs and representations related to Native Americans. She teaches courses such as Introduction to Sociology, Racial and Ethnic Relations, and Media and Society, emphasizing critical societal analysis.

Professionally, Davis-Delano has been actively involved in academic peer review, evaluating over 100 journal submissions since 1992, and organizing conference sessions and scholarly collaborations. Notably, she co-authored a resolution passed by the American Sociological Association (2007) advocating against Native American mascots and led a group of scholars to sign a legal brief on this issue (2016).

On campus, she contributes to curriculum development, diversity initiatives, and LGBTQ+ advocacy through roles like Safe Zone Committee member, Racial & Ethnic Issues Working Group, and various Diversity Committees. She also serves on the Massachusetts Mascot Coalition Steering Committee, reflecting her commitment to social justice in representation.

Though no specific grants or labs are listed, her work underscores a dedication to addressing systemic inequities through education and policy advocacy. She remains an active scholar with decades of contributions to sociological discourse and institutional change.