Dr. Cristina Bodea takes helm as department chair

September 2, 2026

MSU Political Science Chair Cristina Bodea has started her term as head of the department Aug. 16, focusing on supporting faculty and creating a home for students.

"I am exited to lead our department and push for our mission to education, understand our social world and give back to the community," she said. "I am ready to support the faculty who teach day in and day out and hopeful to create even more of a home for our students."

Bodea also is happy to see students return to campus as "East Lansing looks drab and lifeless without them!"

Dr. Bodea’s research centers around international and comparative political economy; gender and political economy; and political conflict.  Her work has been published in the Journal of Politics, British Journal of Political Science, International Organization, European Journal of Political Economy, Governance, Public Choice and Economic and Politics.  She also has working papers published by the World Bank and the European Central Bank. 

"I look forward to Dr. Bodea’s leadership," Brent Donnellan, Dean, College of Social Science said. "I want to thank the search committee for their hard work and dedication in providing critical input for selecting the next chair.  I would also like to thank (outgoing interim chair) Dr. Jeff Conroy-Krutz for his excellent work and commitment to the department. Dr. Conroy-Krutz will now focus all of his attention on his research and scholarship and resume teaching duties."