News
PLS PhD Teaching Award for 2022 goes to Jonathan Spiegler
May 17, 2022
Jon is the recipient of the Interdisciplinary Inquiry and Teaching Fellowship from the James Madison College at MSU, and teaches classes on American political philosophy, public policy, and public administration.
“Enjoy the journey” is the message of this year’s University Convocation student speaker, political science major Danielle McClain
May 5, 2022 - Karessa Weir
Political Science senior Danielle McClain hopes to encourage and motivate students to celebrate their journey to graduation as the 2022 University Convocation Speaker.
MGSP Spotlight: Chandler Harris
May 2, 2022
Congratulations to Chandler Harris as he completes his participation in the Michigan Government Semester Program. Chandler, originally from Dallas, is interning with Lansing Chamber of Commerce.
MSU PLS students win UURAF Awards
April 28, 2022 - Katherine Denzin
Kadrianna Cohen, Isabelle Fanning and Nel Robinson all earned awards at this 2022 University Undergraduate Research and Arts Forum.
Dr. Jeffrey Conroy-Krutz to be new MSU PLS interim chairperson
April 27, 2022
College of Social Science Dean Mary Finn announced Dr. Conroy-Krutz would lead the department starting Aug. 16.
Lilli Meng selected as College commencement speaker
April 27, 2022 - Liz Schondelmayer
For graduating seniors, the end of the Spring semester can bring so many emotions: from excitement, joy and pride to uncertainty and anxiety about the future. This is why Lilli Meng, a Political Science senior at Michigan State University, is focusing the speech she will give at the College of Social Science Undergraduate Commencement Ceremony on the hard work and tenacity that has carried her and her peers this far.
MGSP Spotlight: Ja'Miya Grace
April 27, 2022
This week, we shine the spotlight on Michigan Government Semester Program participant Ja'Miya Grace who is interning with Michigan House Democratic Caucus Constituent Services & Councilman Brian Jackson, esq.
MSU PLS alumna earns second Gates Cambridge Scholarship
April 26, 2022
Jasmine Jordan has been named a Gates Cambridge Scholar for the second time. In fall 2022 she will begin a PhD in Criminology at the University of Cambridge. Jordan is one of 79 scholars from 30 countries selected to receive the award. MSU has a total of seven Gates Cambridge Scholars.
Dr. Eric Gonzalez Juenke awarded WLI Tomlanovich Equity Research Fund
April 22, 2022
Dr. Juenke and Political Science student Mikayla Stokes submitted a research proposal entitled "Laboratories of Representation: Women and Candidates of Color in State and Local Elections."
MSU PLS graduates receive Board of Trustees' Award for Academic Excellence
April 22, 2022
During its April 22 meeting, the MSU Board of Trustees presented a record-breaking number of graduating seniors with the Board of Trustees’ Award, recognizing their achievement of the highest scholastic average one can receive, a 4.0 GPA.
MSU PLS PhD student Aliyah McIlwain wins Outstanding Policy Report
April 19, 2022
McIlwain was part of a team to write "Partnership Turnaround: Year Three Report" for the 2022 Division L of the American Educational Research Association.
Dr. Dustin Sebell awarded USNA Fellowship
April 11, 2022
Dr. Sebell has been named a resident fellow at the Stockdale Center for Ethical Leadership at the U.S. Naval Academy.
MSU PLS research project highlights the relationship between American identity and social contact with minoritized communities
April 11, 2022 - Liz Schondelmayer
MSU PLS Dr. Nazita Lajevardi assisted with student research through the MSU Summer Research Opportunities Program
MSU PLS welcomes a new Dean's Research Associate
April 5, 2022
Dean's Research Associate Raúl Rodríguez will be joining the MSU Department of Political Science from the School of Civic and Economic Thought and Leadership at Arizona State University. An alum of "Teach for America," Raúl earned his PhD through the University of Notre Dame. His research focuses on American liberal democracy and the teachings of French political philosopher Alexis de Tocqueville.
MSU PLS Summer 2022 Classes announced
April 4, 2022
MSU Political Science is pleased to offer a wide range of courses both PLS and ISS throughout both summer sessions for 2022.
PLS Statement on Ukraine War
March 30, 2022
We oppose the Russian government's invasion of Ukraine, a sovereign country with a democratically elected government. The devastation of war is heartbreaking. While we are physically removed from the violence, observing Ukrainians valiantly fight for their lives, their democracy, and their land is nevertheless taking an emotional toll—particularly for Ukrainian members of our community as well as those who have personal connections to the conflict.
Dr. Charlie Press, former Department Chairperson, has died at age 99
March 29, 2022
Dr. Press joined the MSU Political Science department in 1954, served as chairperson and started the Michigan Political Science Association.
MSU PLS PhDs find jobs around the world
March 25, 2022
The achievement of earning a doctorate in political science from MSU has allowed several recent graduates to secure their dream placements following graduation.
MSU PLS researchers show the lack of women serving in public office
March 25, 2022
Led by Dr. Eric Gonzalez Juenke, Associate Professor in the MSU Department of Political Science with assistance from MSU honors student Mikayla Stokes, the study found that women hold only 27% of County Commission seats in Michigan’s 83 counties. Accordingly, 90% of the county boards are majority men. The study also found that roughly 1 in 6 of Michigan’s County Commissions had no women members in 2021.
Diversity Torch: Lexie Hampton
March 24, 2022 - Liz Schondelmayer
Alexis Hampton is a fourth-year MSU undergraduate majoring in Public Policy. As the vice president of the Women’s Council, she advocates for all women-identifying students on campus.
Former Michigan Governor Jim Blanchard Reflects on the Life and Legacy of Former U.S. Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright
March 23, 2022 - Becky Jensen
Former Governor of Michigan James Blanchard has issued the following statement on the passing of long-time colleague and friend Former U.S. Secretary Madeleine Albright:
MGSP Spotlight: Kennedi Carpenter
March 21, 2022
This week, we shine the spotlight on Michigan Government Semester Program participant Kennedi Carpenter who is interning with the St. Vincent Refugee Services.
InnovateGov '22 holding an information session for prospective students
March 16, 2022
InnovateGov prepares and delivers MSU’s most vital resource – talented and motivated students – to Detroit’s civic institutions while providing our students with a one-of-a-kind opportunity to do real, impactful, and equitable work on the city’s most critical social problems. The Summer 2022 program is now open for applications.
The Beginning of the End for Putin? Dictatorships Look Stable—Until They Aren’t
March 2, 2022 - Dr. Erica Frantz
Dr. Erica Frantz writes in the lead article in Foreign Affairs that Russian President Vladimir Putin's attack on Ukraine may mark the end of Putin's regime.
MGSP Spotlight: Joslyn Miller
March 1, 2022
This week, we shine the spotlight on Michigan Government Semester Program participant Joslyn Miller who is interning with the Ingham County Prosecutor's Office.
Working to Make a Difference with Brenda Becker
February 24, 2022 - Amanda Guinot Talbot, PhD
All of us have things we wish we could change, whether it be in our day-to-day lives or on a larger societal scale. But what we may not realize is that each of us has an innate power to make a difference - as long as we are willing to put in the work and learn as we go.
MGSP Spotlight: Anne Mello
February 22, 2022
MSU PLS is pleased to highlight another member of the Michigan Government Semester Program - Anne Mello.
MSU PLS senior Jayla Irons shares her experience during an overseas study program in Dubai
February 22, 2022
Jayla studied with the Globalization of Consumerism and Community in Dubai program during the winter of 2021.
MGSP Spotlight: Allison VanDerAue
February 15, 2022
This week's Michigan Government Semester Program Spotlight is Political Science Pre-Law junior Allison VanDerAue.
MGSP Spotlight: Fladiana Lopez
February 8, 2022
MSU PLS is pleased to highlight another member of the Michigan Government Semester Program - Fladiana Lopez. Fladiana is a Political Science major with a minor in Peace and Justice Studies.
MGSP Spotlight: Hannah Buhlmann
February 1, 2022
MSU PLS is pleased to highlight another member of the Michigan Government Semester Program - Hannah Buhlmann. Hannah is interning with U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin, MI-8th.
MGSP Spotlight: Zachary Crawford
January 25, 2022
MSU PLS is pleased to highlight another member of the Michigan Government Semester Program - Zachary Crawford. Zachary is interning with the Executive Office of the Governor.
MSU PLS expresses solidarity with Jewish community
January 21, 2022
The attack on the Congregation Beth Israel in Colleyville, Texas that took place on Jan. 15, 2022 was traumatic to many members of our community. The hostage standoff was not an isolated event, but unfolded at a time during which antisemitic attacks, harassment, vandalism have been on the rise.
MGSP Spotlight: Mia Lucchetti
January 18, 2022
MSU PLS is pleased to introduce another member of the Spring 2022 Michigan Government Semester Program - Mia Lucchetti. Mia is currently interning with Public Affairs Associates.
MGSP Spotlight: Macken Keefe
January 11, 2022
MSU PLS is pleased to introduce another member of the Spring 2022 Michigan Government Semester Program - Macken Keefe.
MGSP starts 10th year with the most diverse cohort yet
January 4, 2022 - Karessa Weir
MSU’s Michigan Government Semester Program (MGSP), housed in the Department of Political Science, is about to kick off its tenth year with the most diverse class of students to date.
MGSP Spotlight: Lexi Hubbard
January 4, 2022
MSU PLS is pleased to announce the newest class of Michigan Government Semester Program for Spring 2022. Our first spotlight is PLS junior Lexi Hubbard.
Diversity Torch: Harnoor Kaur
December 21, 2021
Harnoor Kaur is a third-year MSU College of Social Science student majoring in Criminal Justice and Political Science, with minors in History, Peace and Justice studies, and Law Justice and Public Policy. Originally from India, Harnoor became a Spartan social scientist after discovering her passion for human rights and discovering opportunities to do work in this area at Michigan State University.
Diversity Spotlight: Maen Hammad
December 20, 2021
Mr. Maen Hammad, an MSU political science alumnus. Mr. Hammad, photographer, filmmaker, and activist is an experienced human rights researcher and campaigner at Amnesty International.
PLS Senior receives George C. Marshall Leadership Award
December 13, 2021
Hayden Ferguson, Political Science senior and Army ROTC student, has been selected for the George C. Marshall Leadership Award. Hayden has served as cadet battalion commander during the fall semester and is the top senior in the Army ROTC program this semester.
PLS junior Megan Smejkal is grand prize winner of the Fall 2021 WLI Scholarships
December 2, 2021
The Women’s Leadership Institute (WLI) invited MSU undergraduate students enter to win “The Future of Work and Leadership” scholarship this fall. This contest was tied to an event held on September 30 by the same name, featuring women leaders.
Two PLS students included in MSU Women’s Leadership Institute First Ever Student Cohort
December 1, 2021
The Women’s Leadership Institute (WLI) at Michigan State University has officially created a first of its kind student cohort for the 2021-2022 academic year and two MSU Political Science undergraduates are included in the selection.
Ira Polley Memorial Scholarship awarded to three MPP students
November 16, 2021 - Karessa Weir
Three MSU Political Science Master of Public Policy students have been awarded Ira Polley Scholarships for their exceptional work both inside and outside the classroom, MPP officials announced this week.
Michigan Redistricting Map Analysis
November 16, 2021 - Cynthia Kyle
A new Michigan State University analysis of the latest maps redrawing Michigan’s congressional and legislative districts called Monday for attention to increasing population equality across districts, addressing remaining Voting Rights Act compliance concerns, especially in Detroit, and articulating how communities of interest were selected for protection in the maps.
MSU PLS alumna Jasmine Jordan a finalist for the U.S. Rhodes Scholarship
November 10, 2021
Jasmine Jordan is an Honors College alumna and 2021 graduate with a BA degree in Political Science in the College of Social Science. She was a member of the Urban Educator Cohort Program, and minored in Educational Studies in the College of Education, and African and African American Studies in the College of Arts and Letters. Jordan was a member of the Social Science Scholars Program and the Political Science Scholars Program in the College of Social Science, and was an Honors Research Scholar in the Honors College. Jordan is currently a Gates Cambridge Scholar where she is pursuing an MPhil in Criminological Research at the University of Cambridge.
House Majority Whip Rep. James E. Clyburn shares his experiences, inspirations and insights at the 2021 Gov. Jim Blanchard Public Service Forum
November 10, 2021 - Karessa Weir
The speaker for the 2021 Governor Jim Blanchard Public Service Forum was House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn, D-South Carolina.
Dr. Eric Gonzalez Juenke named exemplary mentor
October 27, 2021
MSU Political Science Associate Professor receives the 2021 Adaljiza Sosa-Riddel Mentor Award for Exemplary Mentoring of Latino/a Graduate Students in Political Science
MSU PLS students create local voter guides
October 26, 2021
Led by Associate Professor Dr. Sarah Reckhow, the Urban Politics scholars created comprehensive guides for both East Lansing and Lansing elections.
From Thin to Thick Representation: How a Female President Shapes Female Parliamentary Behavior
October 25, 2021 - Dr. Michael Wahman, Nikolaos Frantzeskakis
MSU PLS Assistant Professor Michael Wahman and PhD student Nikolaos Frantzeskakis have published an article discussing how the symbolic power of a female president affects female parliamentary behavior.
How political partisanship governed in-person schooling during pandemic
October 20, 2021 - Caroline Brooks
MSU PLS Associate Professor Dr. Sara Reckhow, together with MSU PLS Professor Dr. Matt Grossmann and Education Professor Dr. Katherine Strunk, collected and analyzed date on COVID-19 rates, educator unionization, presidential voting records, district demographics, state education policies and local district reopening plans in Michigan.
U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, MSU College of Social Science alumna, receives the Bryce Harlow Award for public service with integrity
October 20, 2021 - Karessa Weir
MSU alumna U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow has been honored for the integrity of her public service with the Bryce Harlow Foundation Award.
IPPSR report analyzes new election maps
October 19, 2021 - Cindy Kyle
Michigan State University’s Institute for Public Policy and Social and Social Research released a new report analyzing proposed maps redrawing congressional and legislative districts and headed to public hearings this week.
Two MSU PLS students nominated for prestigious graduate school scholarships
October 14, 2021
MSU PLS senior Renold Mueller and 2021 MSU PLS grad Jasmine Jordan have been nominated by Michigan State University for national competitive graduate school scholarships.
U.S. Rep. James E. Clyburn to speak at MSU’s Governor Jim Blanchard Public Service Forum
October 11, 2021
James E. Clyburn, Majority Whip, in the United States House of Representatives will speak at the Wharton Center at 7:30 pm on Monday, November 8th, as a special guest of the Governor Jim Blanchard Public Service Forum. Tickets will go on sale Friday, October 15th, 2021.
Neal Hegarty awarded the Alumni Service Award
October 4, 2021
MSU MPP alum Neal Hegarty was honored by the College of Social Science for having demonstrated service to the college on a local and state wide level.
Student View: Being a 'real' artist
October 4, 2021 - Liz Schondelmayer
MSU PLS alumna Liz Schondelmayer is a graduate student in the MSU Strategic Communication Master’s Program as well as a full-time communications coordinator for the MSU College of Social Science. Schondelmayer was part of the MSU Honors College and Social Science Scholars Program. She earned her undergraduate degrees in political science and media and information from MSU in 2019.
MSU PLS's Matt Grossmann publishes 'How Social Science Got Better'
October 1, 2021 - Caroline Brooks
Michigan State University political scientist Matt Grossmann has had a busy five years tracking two controversial presidential elections, deepening polarization, and power shifts in Lansing and Washington. During that time, the director of MSU’s Institute for Public Policy and Social Research has represented the university on CNN, C-SPAN, and NBC News, as well as in publications including The Washington Post and Politico.
Former Gov. Jim Blanchard shares stories and advice with PLS students
September 24, 2021 - Karessa Weir
Former Michigan Gov. Jim Blanchard sat down with 11 MSU Political Science students recently to discuss his history, current politics and how vastly different Michigan’s political landscape is today.
Diversity Torch: Brenda Pilar-Ayala
September 23, 2021 - Liz Schondelmayer
Brenda Pilar-Ayala is a senior majoring in Psychology and Political Science Pre-law, and minoring in Chicano-Latino Studies, Educational Studies and Leadership in Integrated Learning. Born in Mexico City, Brenda grew up in Lansing and came to Michigan State University in 2017, where she has since exemplified the Spartan spirit of working hard, giving back and helping others - earning her a spot on MSU's 2021 homecoming court.
Student Voice: Stepping out from the shadows
September 20, 2021 - Brenda Pilar
Brenda Pilar is a senior majoring in psychology and political science: pre-law in the College of Social Science. Pilar is minoring in Chicano/Latino studies, educational studies and leadership in integrated learning. She is a Bailey Scholar and a member of the 2021-22 Homecoming Court.
First-generation farmworker student begins college career as MSU PLS student
September 15, 2021 - Henry Mochida
Luz Vazquez Hernandez is a first-year and first-generation student at Michigan State University. A daughter of parents who are migrant farmers from Mulberry, Florida, Vazquez Hernandez, a political science major, is the second in her family to attend MSU. Her brother Juan is a senior.
MSU PLS presents the latest Political Economy newsletter
August 18, 2021
The summer 2021 issue of The Political Economist was edited by Drs. Cristina Bodea, Andrew Kerner and Shahryar Minhas with PhD student Ha Eun Choi.
MSU PLS community saddened by the death of alum Avery Williams
August 16, 2021
Avery Williams was a founding member and the managing partner of Detroit-based Williams Acosta, PLLC a diverse business law firm. Mr. Williams is a 1979 magna cum laude graduate of Michigan State University and a 1982 graduate of the University of Michigan Law School. He was a regular speaker at the Michigan Government Semester Program.
Former Michigan Governor Jim Blanchard Reflects on the Life and Legacy of Former U.S. Senator for Michigan Carl Levin
July 30, 2021 - Becky Jensen
“For over fifty years, I have known Carl Levin as a friend, a colleague and a leader of the important issues of our times. He was much more than Michigan’s longest serving United States Senator."
MSU PLS welcomes new James Madison College Dean
July 28, 2021
Dr. Cameron G. Thies has been named the next dean of James Madison College, effective July 1. Dr. Thies previously served as professor of international relations in the School of Politics and Global Studies at Arizona State University, and as chairperson of the Department of Political Science at University of Iowa.
Dr. Ana Bracic awarded the APSA Experimental Research Section Book Prize
July 1, 2021
Dr. Bracic's book "Breaking the Exclusion Cycle" was named Best Book Published in 2020.
Young Alumni Spotlight: Gabby Kindig
June 24, 2021 - Liz Schondelmayer
This Pride month, the College of Social Science is celebrating our LGBTQ+ alumni who are working to make positive changes within their communities. June's Young Alumni Spotlight, Gabby Kindig, graduated from the College of Social Science in 2021 with degrees in both Political Science and Psychology. Now a Press Assistant for the Executive Office of Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Gabby shares how she found a community at Michigan State University that allowed to be true to herself while she found the career path right for her.
Two PLS students chosen for the 2021-22 MSU Homecoming Court
June 7, 2021
The Michigan State University Homecoming Court is one of the highest honors for MSU seniors. Ten Spartan students, including two Political Science majors, have been carefully chosen from a highly qualified group of candidates to serve on the 2021-2022 Homecoming Court. These students represent the diversity and richness of the MSU experience and will serve as exceptional role models and Spartan ambassadors.
MSU PLS moves up two spots in Shanghai Rankings
May 27, 2021
MSU Political Science is pleased to share that the program has advanced two spots in the international rankings of Political Science departments to 41 out of 400, as measured by the Shanghai Ranking.
Young Alumni Spotlight: Manny Alalouf
May 14, 2021 - Liz Schondelmayer
Manny Alalouf is a 2018 graduate of the College of Social Science. A Political Science major and Social Science Scholar, Manny joined alumni mentor Doug Scott at Movement Search & Delivery Company as a headhunter.
Dr. Ana Bracic receives Harriman Rothschild Book Prize Honorable Mention
May 10, 2021
Dr. Bracic's book "Breaking the Exclusion Cycle: How to Promote Cooperation between Majority and Minority Ethnic Groups" was named Honorable Mention for the prize by the Association for the Study of Nationalities World Convention.
MSU PLS welcomes Dr. Jenny Wolak
May 10, 2021
Dr. Wolak is moving to MSU from the University of Colorado. Her research interests include political psychology and public opinion.
MSU PLS bids farewell to Drs. Jakana Thomas and Benjamin Appel
May 7, 2021
Associate Professors Jakana Thomas and Benjamin Appel have accepted positions at the University of California-San Diego. We wish them the very best!
Brannon, Bichay awarded Spring PhD Awards
May 6, 2021
MSU PLS is pleased to announce that PhD students Lizzie Brannon and Nicolas Bichay have been awarded the PhD Awards for 2021.
Dr. Matt Grossmann and IPPSR secure Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Michigan grant
May 5, 2021 - Cindy Kyle, Matt Grossmann
Michigan State University’s Institute for Public Policy and Social Research has secured a key grant supporting a new initiative instilling racial equity in all aspects of IPPSR’s policy education, political leadership development and survey research.
Two MSU PLS seniors win Richard Lee Featherstone Endowed Prize
May 4, 2021
MSU PLS graduating seniors Janet Ibarra and Jasmine Jordan are two of three undergraduates to be named the 2021 recipients of the Richard Lee Featherstone Endowed Prize.
MSU PLS senior featured as the 2021 Student Commencement Speaker
May 3, 2021
Selva Haidar, the 2021 Student Commencement Speaker for the College of Social Science at Michigan State University, has this message for her classmates. Selva majored in Political Science and Human Capital & Society.
Two MSU PLS research teams win WLI Tomlanovich Research Equity Awards
April 23, 2021 - Liz Schondelmayer
Research teams Dr. Nazita Lajevardi and undergraduate student Jasmine Jordan, and Dr. Cristina Bodea and Dr. Andrew Kerner with undergraduate students Zac Ozormoor and Lillian Meng are the winners of the inaugural 2021 Women's Leadership Institute Tomlanovich Equity Research Fund.
Former Malawi President Joyce Banda discusses female political leadership with Dr. Michael Wahman
April 21, 2021
In this interview with MSU Today with Russ White, Dr. Michael Wahman, Assistant Professor of Political Science, discusses his conversations with Malawi's first female president, Joyce Banda.
MGSP Spotlight: Bailey Tjolsen
April 21, 2021
This week's Michigan Government Semester Program Spotlight is Political Science senior Bailey Tjolsen.
MGSP Spotlight: Douglas Dallich Jr.
April 14, 2021
This week's Michigan Government Semester Program Spotlight is Douglas Dallich Jr., a Political Science junior and one of the inaugural recipients of the Michigan Government Semester Program Scholarship.
Dr. Nura Sediqe to join MSU PLS in 2022
April 12, 2021
MSU PLS is pleased to announce that Dr. Sediqe, currently a Postdoctoral Research Associate & Lecturer at Princeton University, will join the department as an Assistant Professor of Minority Politics.
MSU PLS pleased to announce the hiring of Andrew Halterman
April 9, 2021
Mr. Halterman, PhD candidate at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, will join the faculty of political methodology.
MSU PLS alumna honored with Bryce Harlow Award
April 7, 2021 - Karessa Weir
MSU Political Science alumna Brenda Larsen Becker has some advice for today's PLS students: “First of all, it’s about building relationships and networking. Don’t wait – it’s not all about bookwork. It’s important to study and get good grades but it’s about internships, building your resume and getting involved on campus and in campaigns,” Ms. Becker said. “It’s great that you played lacrosse – that’s leadership and teamwork – but what have you done that shows your interest in this world?”
MGSP Spotlight: Devin Dudley
April 7, 2021
This week's Michigan Government Semester Program Spotlight feature is Devin Dudley! Devin is a senior PLS major working with state Sen. Lana Theis.
MGSP Spotlight: Philip Schichtel
March 31, 2021
This week, we shine the spotlight on Michigan Government Semester Program participant Philip Schichtel, a senior studying political science with a peace and justice studies minor. Philip is interning with state Sen. Sean McCann, D-20.
LeFrak Forum to be held virtually April 8-10 to discuss “Freedom of Speech and Intellectual Diversity on Campus”
March 29, 2021
The freedom of speech is one of Americans’ fundamental civil rights but how often is that right abridged on college campuses? Even when all speech is welcomed in academia, how often is only one perspective heard? Over three days in April, political science, law and policy experts will debate “Freedom of Speech and Intellectual Diversity on Campus” during the LeFrak Forum on Science, Reason, and Modern Democracy’s 31st Annual Program.
MSU PLS Summer 2021 Classes
March 25, 2021
MSU PLS is pleased to announce a wide variety of Summer Classes for 2021, including Political Science and ISS courses.
MGSP Spotlight: Nia Skinner-Miller
March 24, 2021
This week's Michigan Government Semester Program Spotlight is Nia Skinner-Miller, a World Politics junior placed with Rep. Abraham Aiyash.
MGSP Spotlight: Alec Poland
March 17, 2021
This week's Michigan Government Semester Program Spotlight is Political Science Pre-Law junior Alec Poland.
All Politics is Personalized
March 15, 2021 - Erica Frantz
MSU PLS Dr. Erica Frantz discusses how political leaders around the world have amassed power by weakening their parties and may have permanently harmed democracy in Foreign Policy.
MGSP Spotlight: Andrew Thatcher
March 10, 2021
This week's Michigan Government Semester Program Spotlight is Andrew Thatcher, who is interning with the City of Lansing Clerk's Office.
MGSP Spotlight: Mark Blinn
March 3, 2021
This week's Michigan Government Semester Program Spotlight is Mark Blinn, an active-duty veteran studying Political Science and Anthropology at Michigan State University in his senior class.
MGSP Spotlight: Dylan Gebhard
February 24, 2021
This week we are featuring a profile of Michigan Government Semester Program participant Dylan Gebhard. Dylan is interning at the Michigan House of Representatives Democratic Caucus.
MGSP Spotlight: Anaria Rambus
February 17, 2021
Our first Michigan Government Semester Program Spotlight is Anaria Rambus, senior majoring in Political Science Pre-Law with a minor in Human Behavior and Social Services.
Janet Yellen will be the first female treasure secretary in the U.S. Why are so few women in top economic posts?
February 10, 2021 - Andrew Kerner, Ha Eun Choi and Cristina Bodea
MSU PLS Associate Professor Dr. Cristina Bodea, Research Associate Andrew Kerner and PhD student Ha Eun Choi analyzed why so few women are in top finance positions and how the pandemic may change for The Washington Post.
MSU PLS Senior Jasmine Jordan wins prestigious Gates-Cambridge Scholarship
February 8, 2021
Michigan State University senior Jasmine Jordan, an Honors College Political Science senior who grew up in Detroit, has been named as a Gates-Cambridge Scholar.
PLS Students Featured in College Scholarship Highlights
February 2, 2021
PLS majors Gabby Kindig and Kendel Vasser were recently featured in videos created by the College of Social Science to highlight scholarship award winners.
Pete Buttigieg may not know this yet: Rail transportation funding is a racial equity issue.
February 1, 2021 - Sarah Reckhow, Kate Lowe and Andrea Benjamin
MSU PLS Associate Professor Sarah Reckhow writes about how federal transportation policy still fosters racial inequity in the Washington Post's Monkey Cage blog.
Capitol mob wasn’t just angry white men – there were angry white women as well
January 22, 2021 - Dr. Jakana Thomas
The terror inflicted on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 laid bare America’s problem with violent extremism. The FBI and other law enforcement agencies have begun to piece together the events of that day, while attempting to thwart any impending attacks. Scores of people have been arrested and charged over the attack – the vast majority being men. In the wake of these events, there were stories attributing the violence and destruction to “white male rage” “violent male rage” and “angry white men.” But what about the women?
MSU Political Science faculty discuss the Jan. 6 events at the U.S. Capitol
January 18, 2021
Faculty from the Department of Political Science at Michigan State University seek to understand the events and violence of January 6 and help our community navigate contrasting claims of what these events represent and mean for the future of U.S. democracy. Four faculty experts on democratization, authoritarianism, and electoral and political violence share how they view of what just happened and what immediate or long-term challenges they think it might pose to U.S. democracy. Moderated by PLS Chair Corwin Smidt, panelists include Drs. Erica Frantz, Christian Houle, Jakana Thomas and Michael Wahman.
MGSP Announces First Scholarship Winners
January 13, 2021
The Michigan Government Semester Program is pleased to announce the winners of the first MGSP Scholarships.
MSU PLS PhD candidate Zuhaib Mahmood receives an NSF Postdoctoral Fellowship
December 4, 2020
Zuhaib Mahmood, who studies international conflict, cooperation and diplomacy, is one of 23 new postdoctoral researchers announced this week by the National Science Foundation.
Professor Emertius Michael Bratton grows fellowship to support work in Africa
November 24, 2020 - Karessa E. Weir
University Distinguished Professor Emeritus Michael Bratton has increased his support to the MSU Department of Political Science with a $10,000 contribution to the Bratton Fellowship, which supports graduate students for doctoral fieldwork in Africa.
Maysa Sitar wins Mitchell Scholarship
November 23, 2020
MSU PLS senior Maysa Sitar has been awarded a highly prestigious George J. Mitchell Scholarship, one of only 12 students honored with the national scholarship.
Deadline extended for MGSP Scholarships for Spring Semester
November 17, 2020
The deadline to apply for this new scholarship has been extended to Dec. 4. To spur more students to pursue careers in public service and help offset the cost of completing an internship, MSU’s Department of Political Science, in conjunction with generous donors, offers two scholarships to students participating in our prestigious Michigan Government Semester Program (MGSP).
Best Wishes to Brian Egan!
October 28, 2020
After approximately fourteen years of working as an Academic Advisor in the Political Science Department at MSU, Brian Egan has a started a new position and will be moving on to the MSU College of Social Science Student Affairs Office where he will be working as an Assistant Director of Student Affairs & International Engagement Coordinator. Although he will miss PLS (and we will miss him dearly), Brian will still be on campus and his new office will be in Berkey Hall.
MSU PLS students create Voters' Guide for local school board elections
October 20, 2020
Students in MSU PLS Assistant Professor Sarah Reckhow's Urban Politics class created a website to guide East Lansing voters in selecting their next Board of Education members.
MSU PLS professors create Election Madness game to teach students to learn, play and most importantly, care, about political campaigns
October 19, 2020 - Karessa Weir
MSU Political Science Associate Professor Eric Gonzalez Juenke came up with the idea of creating a bracket system similar to the NCAA’s to determine winners in close elections for public office across the country. This summer, he narrowed it down to 21 races and asked fellow political science professors to share it with their students and peers.
Two MSU PLS students nominated for prestigious graduate school scholarships
October 8, 2020
Two Political Science seniors - Jasmine Jordan and Maysa Sitar - are among the students Michigan State University has nominated for nationally competitive graduate school scholarships: the Marshall Scholarship, the Mitchell Scholarship and the Rhodes Scholarships.
Remembering Ruth: The long-lasting legacy and immediate controversy of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg
September 28, 2020 - Karessa Weir, Liz Schondelmayer
When news of the death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg spread Friday night, the political science world was rocked. Twitter and Facebook were filled with tributes by those who considered her an inspiration, as well as predictions by those who feared the long-term impact of her death just weeks before the 2020 presidential election.
Dr. Nazita Lajevardi receives grant to study attitudes toward the release of inmates during Covid-19
September 18, 2020
Jail and prison inmates are disproportionately affected by the pandemic and advocates are calling for the release of non-violent offenders. Whether this will succeed depends on public attitudes toward the incarcerated and health emergencies, according to a new MSU PLS research grant.
MSU PLS to study how social pressure affects the youth vote amid Covid-19
September 18, 2020
Three MSU Political Science researchers were awarded a Rapid-Response Grant to assess the outcomes of civic training and positive social pressure to vote on young voters during a global pandemic.
Best Mentor Ever: Saying Goodbye to Dr. Chuck Matzke
September 17, 2020
Students, colleagues and friends send well wishes to Dr. Chuck Matzke, longtime Political Science professor, who retired at the end of the summer.
conflictNet: Helping researchers map the networks of civil unrest
September 15, 2020 - Karessa Weir
Dr. Shahryar Minhas, Assistant Professor of Political Science, has received a National Science Foundation grant to create conflictNet, a tool by which scholars can study civil conflict through a network perspective.
MSU PLS Welcomes Research Associate Meghan Wilson
September 9, 2020
Dean's Research Associate Meghan Wilson has joined MSU Political Science
Political Science Experts Available for Election
September 9, 2020
MSU Political Science is proud to offer a wide array of expertise on the upcoming elections.
The longer-term coronavirus fallout could erode democracy. Here’s how that could play out.
August 4, 2020 - Cristina Bodea and Christian Houle
Drs. Cristina Bodea and Christian Houle discuss the impact of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic has had on democracy across the world in the Washington Post's Monkey Cage blog.
Dr. Nazita Lajevardi joining University of Oxford as Visiting Professor of American Government
July 28, 2020
MSU Political Science Assistant Professor Nazita Lajevardi has been appointed the Winant Visiting Professor of American Government for 2021-22 at the Rothermere American Institute at University of Oxford.
MSU Political Science improves in global ranking
July 20, 2020
In the newly announced Global Rankings of Academic Subjects 2020, MSU Political Science has improved 16 positions to No. 43.
Remembering John Lewis
July 20, 2020 - Becky Jensen
Former Michigan Governor Jim Blanchard Reflects on the Life of Civil Rights Leader and U.S. Representative John Lewis.
MSU receives $4M for new doctoral fellowships in education sciences
July 9, 2020
Michigan State University has received $4 million from the U.S. Department of Education to prepare scholars who will help shape decisions affecting students and schools across the nation. The grant will provide fellowships, including tuition, living expenses and additional resources, for up to 21 doctoral students over five years.
PLS Announces Graduate Awards
June 16, 2020
The Department of Political Science is pleased to announce the two Graduate Student awards of the year. There were many outstanding nominations. The winners of each award will receive $500 from the department.
PLS PhD student Lizzie Brannon named Peace and Security Scholar Fellow
June 10, 2020
Lizzie will be a 2020-2021 USIP-Minerva Peace and Security Scholar Fellow at the US Institute of Peace. Her dissertation, “The Role of Women in Former Rebel Parties in Post-Conflict Africa,” examines the role of women in rebel groups that have transitioned into political parties.
MSU Political Science department statement condemning racism and anti-Black violence
June 8, 2020
We stand in support of our Black students, faculty, staff, and members of the community and join the College of Social Science and Michigan State University in condemning the racism and anti-Black violence that permeates the spaces we share.
PLS PhD student Jonathan King wins NSF grant
June 4, 2020
Jonathan King, an MSU Political Science doctoral student, has been awarded a National Sciences Foundation Doctoral Dissertation Improvement Grant.
PhD student Erika Vallejo receives American Political Science Association's Minority Fellowship
May 28, 2020
The APSA Minority Fellows Program (MFP) is a fellowship competition for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds applying to or in the early stages of doctoral programs in political science.
PLS Graduating Seniors Celebrated with an Online Yearbook
May 6, 2020
The MSU Department of Political Science is proud to celebrate our 2020 undergraduate seniors who completed their degrees in the Spring 2020 with an online yearbook.
Opinion: Why Is Support For Media Crackdowns Rising In Africa?
May 4, 2020 - Jeff Conroy-Krutz
Dr. Jeffrey Conroy-Krutz has published an opinion piece on National Public Radio on how leaders around the world are exploiting the fear and uncertainty created by the coronavirus pandemic to cement their power and suppress their opponents.
Two PLS students win Women's Leadership Institute Awards
April 28, 2020
Two Political Science undergraduate students Gifty Owusu-Tawiah and Danielle McClain recently won awards from the Women's Leadership Institute video contest.
MPP Capstone Forum will take place virtually in May
April 16, 2020
Dr. Josh Sapotichne, Director of the Master of Public Policy Program, announced yesterday that the current MPP cohort will be presenting their capstone projects virtually starting in May.
Report looks at how schools could make up for time lost in class due to COVID-19
April 10, 2020
Dr. Sarah Reckhow, Associate Professor of Political Science, discusses how to catch children up in their education once schools are allowed to reopen.
PLS major wins Julian Samora Institute Scholarship
April 3, 2020
Leobardo Vallejo, Political Science major and MSU Social Science Scholar, has been awarded the Julian Samora Institute Scholarship for undergraduates.
MPP remembers state Rep. Isaac Robinson
March 30, 2020
MI State House Rep Isaac Robinson passed away Sunday likely due to complications from Covid-19. Mr. Robinson, D-Detroit, had a great impact on Masters of Public Policy students.
New Summer Online Course Explores Pandemics and Social Science
March 24, 2020
We are pleased to add a highly relevant course to our Summer Online Course selection. ISS 318 Pandemics and Social Science explores the history of pandemics, how they are portrayed in pop culture, and related policies. Instructor Erica Frantz is the 2020 CSS Outstanding Teacher.
Millions of Africans lack access to clean water. This makes coronavirus a bigger threat.
March 22, 2020 - Brian Howard and Kangwook Han
MSU Political Science PhD student Kangwook Han writes about the effects of clean water shortage in Africa on efforts to fight the coronavirus.
Coronavirus could be used by authoritarian leaders as excuse to undermine democracy, experts warn
March 19, 2020
Dr. Erica Frantz discusses autocratic regimes in this article in The Independent.
MSU Coronavirus Updates
March 11, 2020
Effective at noon March 11, MSU is suspending face-to-face instruction in classroom settings and moving to virtual instruction. We are continuing to work with faculty and staff on laboratory and performance classes, and the university will provide additional guidance. This suspension of in-person classes will last until April 20.
Political Science Summer Online Courses Now Available
February 25, 2020
MSU Political Science is pleased to offer a wide array of courses online for the Summer 2020. Please refer to this page while we work to update the Summer Session course list on the Schedule of Courses website. https://polisci.msu.edu/undergraduate/summer.html
Five Things to Know about the Presidential Primary Election
February 24, 2020 - Karessa Weir
Super Tuesday is quickly approaching and the predictions are ramping up as to who will win the 2020 Democratic primary election. Matt Grossmann – associate professor of political science and director of Michigan State University’s Institute for Public Policy and Social Research – wants you to slow down, take a step back and learn a few important points about presidential primaries before you get overwhelmed by the rapid news cycle.
Jessica Schoenherr hired at University of South Carolina
February 18, 2020
Political Science PhD candidate Jessica Schoenherr has accepted a position as assistant professor of public law at University of South Carolina.
Dr. Erica Frantz named Outstanding Teacher for 2020
February 11, 2020
Dr. Erica Frantz, Assistant Professor of Political Science, was named by Social Science College Dean Rachel Croson as the College's Outstanding Teacher for 2020.
Prioritizing Judicial Nominations after Presidential Transitions
February 11, 2020 - Jonathan M. King, Ian Ostrander
MSU Political Science PhD student Jonathan M. King and Dr. Ian Ostrander have published their latest research examining district court judicial vacancies from 1981-2019 in Presidential Studies Quarterly.
Will bold landmark election ruling improve Malawian democracy
February 11, 2020 - Michael Wahman
The Constitutional Court in Lilongwe, Malawi, recently delivered its anxiously anticipated ruling in the much covered presidential election case. The atmosphere was tense. Many businesses had locked down, fearing rioting if the court ruled in favour of the incumbent government of President Peter Mutharika.
The Digital Dictators: How Technology Strengthens Autocracy
February 6, 2020 - Erica Frantz, Andrea Kendall-Taylor and Joseph Wright
Dr. Erica Frantz writes about how a new arsenal of digital tools enables authoritarian regimes to cast a wider net than every before in surveillance of its citizens, with fewer resources than in the past. At the same time, digital suppression by the regimes decreases protests.
PLS professors discuss democracy promotion on U-M panel
February 6, 2020
Drs. Erica Frantz and Jeffrey Conroy-Krutz were panelists at the Weiser Center for Emerging Democracies' panel on "Is Democracy Promotion Dead?" at the University of Michigan Tuesday.
Political Science Scholar takes top Diversity Research award
January 28, 2020
Political Science Scholar Jasmine Jordan won first prize in the Third Annual Diversity Research Showcase, held in conjunction with the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative Celebration at MSU.
Crowd-sourcing social science: How an MSU professor is engaging the public in one-of-a-kind Supreme Court research
January 17, 2020 - Liz Schondelmayer
Crowdsourcing is a controversial yet innovative product of the internet age, allowing for individuals and organizations to harness the collective power of the world wide web for fundraising and brainstorming. But can crowdsourcing also be used for academic research?
As MSU plans fall break "pilot", concerns about effect on voter turnout
January 12, 2020 - Michigan Radio
Political Science professors Sarah Reckhow and Matt Grossmann discuss the effects of the proposed fall break on student voter turnout with Michigan Radio.
Dr. Sarah Reckhow Named A Top Influencer in Education Policy
January 9, 2020
Dr. Reckhow, Associate Professor of Political Science, is among five Michigan State University faculty earned national recognition for their influential research in the field of education.
InnovateGov internship program featured in Urban Affairs Forum
January 9, 2020
MSU Political Science PhD student Kesicia Dickinson and faculty Marty Jordan, Sarah Reckhow and Joshua Sapotiche explain the impact that InnovateGov is having in Detroit as part of the Urban Affairs Forum's Engaged Scholarship Series.
PhD student Caleb Lucas publishes paper analyzing Hezbollah's relationships with other non-state groups
January 2, 2020 - Karessa Weir
"Once More, With Feeling: Using Sentiment Analysis to Improve Models of Relationships Between Non-State Actors" was published Jan. 1, 2020 with co-author Kevin T. Green of University of Pittsburgh.
"Breaking the Exclusion Cycle" by Dr. Ana Bracic
January 1, 2020
Dr. Ana Bracic, Assistant Professor of Political Science, has published "Breaking the Exclusion Cycle: How to Promote Cooperation between Majority and Minority Ethnic Groups."
Dr. Erica Frantz publishes new book: "Democracies and Authoritarian Regimes"
December 23, 2019
Dr. Erica Frantz, Assistant Professor of Political Science, has published her latest book covering the full spectrum of political systems.
Five Things You Need to Know About the Impeachment Process
December 4, 2019 - Karessa Weir
In the inaugural Five Things to Know lecture series, Political Science assistant professor Ian Ostrander boiled down all the chatter about the ongoing impeachment of President Donald J. Trump into five important points about the little-understood process of presidential impeachment.
Public Policy Senior selected as Udall Scholar
December 2, 2019 - Beth Bonsall
Public Policy Senior Charlie Booher, an Honors College student also majoring in Fisheries and Wildlife, is one of 55 students selected as 2019 Udall Scholars.
Professor Wahman’s Research Launched to Malawi Political Stakeholders
November 26, 2019
Professor Michael Wahman is the keynote speaker at a launch and press conference organized by the UK’s Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD) and Malawi’s Institute for Policy Interaction (IPI) in Lilongwe (Malawi), November 27. At the launch, Prof. Wahman will release the results from his new parliamentary candidate survey on the Costs of Politics in Malawi. The launch will be attended by Malawi Members of Parliament, members of the international diplomatic community, journalists, and representatives of Malawi Civil Society.
Dr. Cristana Bodea presents at international conference
November 8, 2019
Professor Bodea has been invited to attend the SUERF conference at Bocconi University in Milan, Italy on “Populism, Economic Policies and Central Banking.”
Training Detroit's Future Civic Leaders
October 17, 2019
“The inspiration for my work is my responsibility to my community.”
Dr. Boniface Dulani heading anti-corruption efforts in Malawi
October 3, 2019
Dr. Boniface Dulani, 2011 PhD alumnus, has been hired to lead a team of researchers in drafting of a new National Anti Corruption Strategy to guide the anti-corruption efforts in Malawi over the period 2020-2025. Dr. Dulani is research director at the Institute of Public Onion and Research in Malawai whose the Corruption Perception Survey of 2019 will guide the new strategy. Dr. Dulani has also served as Fieldwork Operations Manager for Afrobarometer since 2008
'Red State Blues' reveals how political parties haven't changed politices
October 1, 2019 - Caroline Brooks
The political divide between Democrats and Republicans seems to be the most contentious in recent years but in his latest book, “Red State Blues,” Michigan State University political scientist Matthew Grossmann presents findings that might put some liberals at ease.
Alumnus Nathan Ohle kicks of the Fall Speaker Series
September 23, 2019
On Sept. 23, the department kicked off the Fall Speaker Series with CEO of Rural Community Assistance Partnership (RCAP) and Michigan State University alum (#GoGreen), Nathan Ohle.
Dr. Ryan Black named 2019 Graduate School Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award
September 16, 2019
Professor Ryan Black has been chosen by the MSU Graduate School as the recipient of the 2019 Michigan State University Graduate School Outstanding Faculty Mentor Award for his mentoring of students in research and teaching.
Elizabeth Lane Awarded Best Graduate Student Paper
June 17, 2019
Ph.D. candidate, Elizabeth Lane, has been recognized by the American Political Science Association’s Law and Courts Section as the Co-winner of the section’s Best Graduate Student Paper.
Political Science/Pres-Law Student Warren Stanfield seeking East Lansing City Council bid
May 30, 2019
Warren Stanfield has been busy. He is currently collecting signatures for a bid for East Lansing City Council.
Do you trust politicians? Depends on how you define trust
May 15, 2019 - Caroline Brooks, Joseph Hamm
Dr. Corwin Smidt collaborated with MSU Criminal Justice professor Joe Hamm to survey perceptions of federal government.