Distinguished Alumni Award

Joseph Scott, ’57, has built a distinguished career as a sociologist and currently serves as a professor emeritus of sociology at the University of Washington in Seattle.

He arrived at the University of Washington in 1985 and served as chairman and professor of American ethnic studies and professor of sociology.

He is written nearly 50 articles and also “The Black Revolts: The Politics of Racial Stratification.”

Joseph grew up in Detroit, the son of a sharecropper and factory worker. At CMU he majored in sociology and minored in physical education and speech. He was a member of the varsity football team throughout his CMU career, he was named an outstanding student senator, and he participated on the debate team with Dick Enberg as his partner.

Joseph earned his master’s degree and doctorate from Indiana University.

A two-time Fulbright scholar, he has been a pioneer throughout his life and has been recognized as such by the Association of Black Sociologists. He served on the Committee on Freedom for Research and Teaching for the American Sociological Association, he is a past president and vice president for the North Central Sociological Association, and he is a past president of the Association of Black Sociologists.

He has been active in professional associations, has won numerous awards, and has lectured and traveled throughout the world. He also has contributed pro bono work to a number of antipoverty and civil rights organizations.