The Midwest Sociological Society (MSS) awarded first prize to Northland College senior Kaylee Thornley for her paper, “Social Capital and Community Attachment: Understanding How Social Ties, Trust, and Reciprocity Relate to Rural Resident Attachment.” The MSS will present Thornley her a plaque and $250 prize in Chicago at a ceremony on March 25.

In addition, seniors Adrian Diaz and Julia Fair and junior Megan McBride—will be presenting research at the conference. Thornley’s advisor Brandon Hofstedt, associate professor of sustainable community development, will also attend.