what does the little label next to our profile names mean?

Oh, you've definitely got to earn your stripes @rmager (which is easily done).

From the Scope community guidelines: 'Badges and ranks are intended as a fun way of showing how much members contribute to the community. Once you reach the (25 point), the ability to send private messages is also enabled. You can view your current rank on your profile page, next to your username, and your current number of points can be found in the ‘About’ section of your profile. Over on the right hand side (or at the bottom of the screen on a mobile device), you can also view the badges you have earned.'