Donald Shoemaker honored with emeritus status

October 23, 2019

Donald Shoemaker, professor of sociology in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences at Virginia Tech, has been conferred the title of professor emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.

The emeritus title may be conferred on retired professors, associate professors, and administrative officers who are specially recommended to the board by Virginia Tech President Tim Sands in recognition of exemplary service to the university. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board receive a copy of the resolution and a certificate of appreciation.

A member of the Virginia Tech community since 1974, Shoemaker made significant contributions to the field of criminology with a specialization in the causes, consequences, and societal reaction to juvenile delinquency.

During his career, he published five books and numerous articles, chapters, and research reports on his scholarship. Shoemaker was a Fulbright Senior Research Scholar to the University of the Philippines, where he conducted cross-national research on juvenile delinquency.

In the classroom, Shoemaker taught a variety of undergraduate and graduate courses. He was honored with the Department of Sociology Teaching Excellence Award and was the recipient of a Certificate of Recognition for Outstanding Leadership of Service-Learning Students.

He also serves as president of Alpha Kappa Delta International Sociology Honor Society.

Shoemaker received his bachelor’s degree from Millsaps College and his master’s degree and Ph.D. from the University of Georgia.