The Midwest Sociological Society (MSS), founded in 1936, is a professional organization of academic and applied sociologists as well as students of the discipline. Nearly 1200 scholars, students and practicing sociologists in universities, government and business belong to the organization. Known for its accessible but rigorous meetings, the MSS encompasses nine states - Illinois, Missouri, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nebraska, Minnesota, Kansas, South Dakota and North Dakota. However, more than one-third of the members are from other parts of the nation and the world.