Presidential Address: Reconceptualizing Rurality and Nurturing Rural Sociological Souls☆

Abstract

This address focuses on the importance of inclusivity and diversity to the future of the Rural Sociological Society. It begins by sharing the author's experiences within the society as a rural‐focused scholar trained in a Sociology department without strong ties to the RSS, and the challenges she faced in earning recognition in the RSS. It goes on to explore the development of the RSS and the ways in which this history continues to shape who is and isn’t perceived as a rural sociologist. It then argues that the society should strive to be more inclusive in the ways it conceptualizes both rurality and rural sociology. This inclusivity should be extended to those who care about rural places and populations and treat them with respect, regardless of whether they were trained in historic departments of Rural Sociology. The Society should view multidisciplinarity as a benefit, not a detriment to its long‐term health and flourishing. The address ends by calling upon members to engage in the work of nurturing rural sociological souls wherever they are trained and working. It emphasizes the importance of a renewed commitment to diversity and inclusivity in multiple forms.