This National Science Foundation (NSF) Social, Behavioral, and Economic Sciences (CFDA 47.075) Project Grant award of $109,829 to Wake Forest University will support research to investigate the role of public architecture and rituals in the development of ancient societies, including the transition to sedentary farming lifestyles and social complexity. The key objectives are to: 1) date ceremonial complexes, 2) locate associated residential areas, and 3) recover evidence of early foodways. The project will leverage LiDAR mapping, pedestrian surveys, excavations, radiocarbon dating, and plant analyses to advance understanding of how ceremonial architecture and public rituals contributed to the emergence of complex societies in select regions. This award will also strengthen international research collaborations, support student training, and facilitate community outreach and cultural resource preservation efforts.