Political Science Newsletter
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
What a remarkable year it has been for our department — and what a fitting one to reflect on just how far we have come. This year, we celebrated our 60th anniversary, a milestone that speaks to decades of dedicated scholarship, teaching, and public service. It was a joy to reconnect with so many of our alumni at our anniversary celebration in Washington, and we look forward to continuing those reunions in Richmond on May 19 and in Blacksburg on August 20. If you have not yet joined us, we hope to see you soon.
Our department is not simply marking its history — we are growing into our future. Undergraduate enrollment has surpassed our targets, and our Master program continues to thrive, with notable growth in our Online Master's (OLMA) enrollment. We are also proud to be stepping into a leadership role in ASPECT, the interdisciplinary Ph.D. program, as we deepen our commitment to graduate education at every level.
This year also brought well-deserved recognition to members of our community. Two distinguished alumni received prestigious honors: Dr. Susan Gooden, recognized as Distinguished Alumna, and Dr. Jordan Fallon, recipient of the Rising Star Award. On our faculty side, Dr. Debrix was honored with the International Studies Association Distinguished Scholar Award — just one among many examples of the exceptional caliber of scholarship within our department.
We have also continued to expand our commitment to experiential learning, offering students the opportunity to engage in Diplomacy Lab, and several internships that connect them to the professional world. Furthermore, our study abroad program in Riva San Vitale continues to offer students a unique opportunity to combine rigorous curricular instruction with immersive engagement in the very regions they are studying — the kind of education that stays with you long after the classroom.
None of this happens without the dedication of the people who make our department what it is. To our faculty, staff, and students: thank you. You are the reason this department remains a vibrant and thriving place to learn, grow, and serve.
With gratitude and pride,
Laura Zanotti
Professor and Chair
If you are interested in being featured in an upcoming newsletter, please reach out to Patrick Salmons, Graduate Coordinator and Communications Specialist for the Political Science Department.
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Our students benefit from the support of alumni and friends who invest in expanding opportunities. There are various options for giving: you can make a gift on a one-time basis, monthly, or annually. Any amount, big or small, helps support our Political Science Department students. Click here to give now! Under "search for an area to support", type "political science department" and you will see the Political Science Department Annual Fund.
