Introducing the Journal’s Next Chapter of Leadership, Vision, and Sociological Excellence
As the flagship journal of Alpha Kappa Delta, Sociological Inquiry has long played a central role in elevating scholarship, advancing sociological thought, and supporting researchers across diverse methodological and theoretical traditions. Today, we are thrilled to introduce Dr. Nathaniel G. Chapman, the incoming Editor of Sociological Inquiry, whose deep commitment to sociology, extensive AKD involvement, and editorial experience position him to lead the journal into an exciting new era.
Dr. Chapman brings to the editorship a distinguished record of scholarship, leadership, and service that strongly aligns with the mission of Sociological Inquiry. His extensive research portfolio spans the sociology of culture, consumption, race, and the production of cultural spaces, including co-authoring Beer and Racism and editing influential volumes such as Untapped and Beer Place: The Microgeographies of Craft Beer. His deep experience in the peer-review process—serving as a reviewer for journals such as American Sociological Review, Contemporary Sociology, and The Sociology of Race and Ethnicity—demonstrates his longstanding commitment to rigorous, constructive scholarly evaluation.
Beyond publishing, Dr. Chapman has organized and presided over numerous conference sessions, showing a strong dedication to cultivating sociological dialogue across subfields and professional communities. Combined with a robust teaching portfolio and notable service roles—including directing undergraduate research initiatives and mentoring both graduate and undergraduate students—Dr. Chapman brings a holistic, student-centered perspective that aligns closely with AKD’s mission to support sociologists at every stage of their academic journey
In this feature, we share Dr. Chapman’s reflections on being a sociologist, his longstanding connection to AKD, and his goals for the journal as he steps into the editorship.
A Sociologist Driven by Curiosity, Critical Inquiry, and Awareness
When asked what being a sociologist means to him, Dr. Chapman offered a reflection grounded in both humility and analytical insight.
“To me, being a sociologist means approaching the world with curiosity and a critical lens. It’s about asking why society is organized the way it is, how power and inequality shape people’s lives, and how culture, institutions, and relationships influence behavior.”
This perspective aligns deeply with the mission of Sociological Inquiry, which has long championed scholarship that interrogates the social forces shaping modern life. Dr. Chapman also emphasized the importance of reflexivity, noting:
“Being a sociologist also means valuing diverse perspectives, while staying aware of my own position in the world.”
This reflexive commitment—to understanding one’s social location and honoring the multiplicity of voices within the discipline—is a theme he carries into his new editorial role.
A Longstanding Connection to Alpha Kappa Delta
Dr. Chapman’s relationship with Alpha Kappa Delta stretches back nearly two decades. Initiated into AKD in 2006 at the College of Charleston, he has maintained an active engagement with the honor society throughout his career. Most recently, at Arkansas Tech University, he served as a Co-Representative of the Eta Chapter alongside Dr. Jason Ulsperger.
Under their leadership, the chapter flourished, ultimately earning Chapter of the Year honors in 2021–2022. Reflecting on his AKD affiliation, Dr. Chapman shared:
“My affiliation with Alpha Kappa Delta represents a recognition of my dedication to the study of sociology and my commitment to academic excellence. It connects me to a community of scholars who value critical inquiry, equity, and using sociological knowledge to make a positive impact in the world.”
This commitment to both academic excellence and social responsibility resonates strongly with AKD’s mission and with the scholarly values of Sociological Inquiry.
A Meaningful Introduction to Sociological Inquiry
Long before he became editor, Dr. Chapman was a contributor to the journal. His first interaction with Sociological Inquiry came when he was seeking a venue for his earliest scholarly work.
“I remember receiving a thorough revise and resubmit with thoughtful feedback from the reviewers. I was impressed with the quality of feedback and the wide range of perspectives of the reviewers.”
His first publication in the journal—eventually published in 2019—was formative, shaping his respect for Sociological Inquiry as a journal committed to rigorous peer review and constructive engagement. He also highlighted how AKD’s mission enhances the journal’s accessibility for early scholars:
“AKD and its mission of enhancing and supporting undergraduate and graduate students make the journal accessible in terms of publication opportunities, but also a source of foundational sociological knowledge and research methodologies.”
That early experience of supportive and rigorous review now fuels his commitment to ensuring that future authors experience the same level of care and developmental guidance.
Excitement for a New Chapter of Editorial Leadership
As Dr. Chapman steps into the role of Editor, he is both honored and energized by the opportunity:
“I am excited for the opportunity to continue the tradition of excellence established by past editors and contributors. I believe that scholarship informs teaching and service and am excited to highlight the diverse scholarship and research at the forefront of sociology today.”
His vision is rooted in continuity—honoring the work of past editors—while also embracing innovation, openness, and a broader global footprint for the journal.
Goals for Sociological Inquiry: Excellence, Diversity, and Growth
Dr. Chapman enters his editorial term with several clear priorities.
One of his goals is to expand methodological and theoretical diversity, saying:
“I hope to bring methodological and theoretical diversity through my network of reviewers”
Dr. Chapman is also focused on growing the journal’s readership by strengthening visibility across institutions and deepening engagement within AKD’s international community.
He is committed to showcasing cutting-edge research that addresses contemporary social challenges and transformations, and he plans to build on the strong editorial foundations already in place. As he puts it,
“It is my goal for Sociological Inquiry to be a leading generalist journal in the field that showcases the highest levels of research and scholarship.”
What Authors and Readers Should Know About the Journal
Dr. Chapman wants scholars to understand that Sociological Inquiry is a welcoming and dynamic home for high-quality research across the social sciences.
“Sociological Inquiry is more than a strictly sociological journal. Its accessibility and rising impact make it a competitive journal that welcomes scholarship across many disciplines.”
He also notes that the journal fits especially well for work using innovative methodologies, emerging theoretical frameworks, or interdisciplinary lenses.
In short, Sociological Inquiry continues to be a hub for rigorous, creative, and socially engaged scholarship.
Looking Ahead
As AKD welcomes Dr. Chapman into the editorship, we celebrate both his longstanding commitment to the discipline and his forward-looking vision for the journal. His leadership promises a period of growth, accessibility, and continued excellence for Sociological Inquiry.
We look forward to the scholarship—and the community impact—that will emerge during his editorial term!