& News DEPARTMENTViews OF POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT | SPRING 2021

INSIDE

4 News from the department

7 Faculty and Students stay engaged scholarly news 8 Student news during time of and activities political chaos 12 Alumni news Page 2 12 Honors/awards Civic engagement in a time of adversity By John Moody

The Greek philosopher, Plato, may have been right when he said: tion in America.” “One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that Phares, who is not from a politically active family, suspected you end up being governed by your inferiors.” That said, there’s that his beliefs would put him in a political minority on a college no need to fear the future as students in the Department of Poli- campus, and he knew conservatives didn’t always feel comfortable tics and Government at Illinois State University have heeded the speaking out. But he was up for the challenge. ancient warning and already immersed themselves in the political “There’s been some public persecution,” he said. “I’ve been met process. with some serious friction, but I started clubs to have a conversa- The politics of Washington, D.C., and here in Illinois have be- tion so that we can root out the bad ideas through civil discussion.” come so polarizing in recent years that many people have turned And, he’s kept at it. Through Students for Trump, he knocked away from all the noise emanating from both sides of the aisle. on doors for then-candidate Donald Trump and for a senator and Thankfully, there are Redbirds who still hear the call to serve. a congresswoman. He’s volunteered for local GOP organizations Professor Erik Rankin, the department’s director of enrollment in McLean and DuPage counties. He’s also given speeches on the management and undergraduate studies, said the current genera- importance of energizing voters to vote for Republican candidates. tion of students is in some ways more civically engaged than politi- Phares can trace his conservatism to his roots where he was cally engaged. But, he added, even if the political climate of their taught that in America you can succeed with hard work. He be- era is caustic, his students remain concerned for their fellow citi- zens. “These students—because it’s kind of imprinted in their DNA—they want to help people,” Rankin said. “And, they’ve cho- sen politics as the vehicle for that. These students are pretty awe- some already.” Rankin leads students on an annual, week-long civic engage- ment trip to Washington, D.C., where they get to see their gov- ernment at work with visits to Capitol Hill and to nonprofit or- ganizations. In the classroom, Rankin teaches U.S. government, leadership, and political theory. He said it is important as a teacher to welcome and defend all points of view, even those that don’t align with his own political ideals. “This is for me as an educator my job,” he said. “I’m not an educator of Democrat or Republican students. I’m not an educator of liberal or conservative students. I’m an educator of all different ideologies and backgrounds. “My job is to educate them wherever they are. If they are Democrats or Republicans, make them better Democrats or better Republicans, and meet them where they are.” Kevin Phares

Sophomore Kevin Phares is a double major in politics and govern- Conservatarian Kevin Phares ment and marketing, with future plans for law school. He describes himself as a conservative with a twist. “I’m a conservative, but also a conservatarian—a conservative came interested in politics in 2014, prior to the 2016 election. He with libertarian leanings,” Phares said. was a big fan of Sen. Ted Cruz, and then Trump surprised the world Before committing to study politics and government, which by getting nominated. Phares was considering for a minor, he made a visit to the depart- “That made me nervous because he was a novice,” Phares said, ment to check it out. He ran into Rankin that day and found an adding that he liked Trump’s policies but found him “at best, mor- ally. ally reprehensible” as a person. “Professor Rankin has been a huge advocate for me and also Phares plans to use his Illinois State education to eventually run a defender of mine,” Phares said. “And, he’s a political opposite. for public office after earning his law degree. He said I was needed here to add to the conversation. He’s a fierce “I’ll work my way up to the senate, start in state and local poli- defender of free speech.” tics, and build up a reputation,” he said. Rankin advised him to consider politics and government as a major rather than a minor, so Phares took him up on it. Since then Mary O’Brien he’s been very involved with Students for Trump and Turning Point Mary O’Brien ’20 is pursuing a graduate degree at Illinois State in USA, a conservative organization active on over 2,500 campuses public service after completing a double major in political science that bills itself as “the largest and fastest-growing youth organiza- and legal studies. She is the child of two state employees, so she was

2 DEPARTMENT OF POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT | POL.ILLINOISSTATE.EDU rallies and got to shake his hand. He opened me up to politics.” Zamudio also knocked on doors as field director for Nikita Richards in her bid to become McLean County Clerk. He’s worked on campaigns in Illinois and Wisconsin. His intense interest in politics is personal and started at home with his family. “My mother is from Guatemala, and I’m a first-generation col- lege student,” Zamudio said. “Trump was not friendly to immi- grants so it lit a fire.” Trump and his policies inspired Zamudio to get family and friends in his immediate circle more involved to help push back against what he saw as “Trump’s hostility toward immigrants.” Za- mudio also believes Trump’s environmental policies have put the planet in crisis. And, he sees greater income inequality, especially for low-income immigrant families like his own. Activist and Campaign Manager Mary O’Brien “I’m a progressive Democrat, but I’m also critical of the party,” he said, noting that some in his party are too beholding to donors naturally aware of state politics at an early age. Her real political once they get elected. He also believes in Medicare for all because influence was her grandmother, Marilyn Michelini, who served as he knows the impact good health care can have on people he knows mayor of Montgomery in northern Illinois for 12 years. personally. “She was a moderate who worked across the aisle,” O’Brien said “In my community, folks can’t go to the doctor for fear they of her grandmother. “With that background, I never really explored can’t afford it,” he said. other majors.” During his time at Illinois State, Zamudio credits his professors O’Brien, who was part of Rankin’s civic engagement trip last for pushing him to do his best and for helping him better grasp year, describes herself as a social liberal. politics. He’s been inspired by professors Kerri Milita, Noha Shaw- “I want human rights, equal opportunity,” she said. “I’m not ki, and Rankin. really a progressive, but I am interested in the big social issues.” The ISU College Democrats also make a yearly trip to Wash- The last few years have inspired her to an even greater interest ington, D.C., which Zamudio has participated in three times. So, in politics. it’s no surprise that his “I’ve definitely been a little angry, to say the least,” O’Brien future goals involve said. “I didn’t agree with (Trump’s) LGBTQ+ policies or immigra- working in the na- tion issues, so I’m hopeful about the new administration. We’ll see.” tion’s capital, possibly O’Brien enjoyed her academic experience at Illinois State so on a Congressional much that she stayed on to pursue graduate studies. She said the staff or for a non- faculty inspired her and peaked her interest in politics. She said profit. As he finishes her most influential professors have been Nancy Lind, Katelyn up his time at Illinois Schachtschneider, and Rankin. State, he knows he “I absolutely love the department at ISU and had never person- made the right choice ally met professors who care so much about your success,” she said. for a major. “They care a lot, and they follow through. They helped with getting “This department me into grad school and helped me get scholarships.” is great,” Zamudio O’Brien has gained some practical experience along the way by said. “We have some working on her first political campaign. of the best profs on “Last election cycle I was the campaign manager for Abbi Sor- campus.” rells’ run for McLean County coroner,” she said. “I really enjoyed For Rankin, he that experience because it was my first time being directly involved wants all of his stu- with a campaign and leading it. I was able to see if politics is truly dents to come away Progressive Angel Zamudio for me.” from their experience Even though it wasn’t a successful campaign, O’Brien found a here with an apprecia- good fit for her career ambitions. tion for the importance of politics and government in their lives. “My dream job would be to be elected to Congress or to be on “We absolutely require as an American society students who are staff for a member of Congress,” she said. willing, able, and intelligent enough to tackle the big problems we have,” Rankin said. “We will always need solutions to big problems. Angel Zamudio Right now it’s the coronavirus, but in 20 years it will be something Senior Angel Zamudio has logged more political experience than else. We need smart, capable people who are ready to help people. most people whether they be college students or their parents. He’s served as vice president and president of the ISU College Demo- “Ben Franklin said: ‘Well done is better crats, but his interest in politics started when he was 18. than well said.’ Putting your hat in the “I got involved as a senior in high school during the Bernie Sanders primary campaign,” Zamudio said. “I went to three of his ring is important.”

2021 | ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY 3 NEWS FROM THE DEPARTMENT

CHAIR’S REMARKS Donor Spotlight Fund. The fund will enable students to gain in- ternship experiences and embrace civic engage- The period of 2020-21 is unprecedented as Ali Riaz ment opportunities. the COVID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc The newly endowed Ali Riaz Graduate Stu- Before joining the Politics and Government on the global community. ISU is no ex- dent Award in the Department of Politics and Department, Roberts attended Princeton Uni- ception as students, Government will recognize the best student in versity on a Woodrow Wilson Fellowship, earn- faculty, and staff have Comparative Politics and International Rela- ing his master’s and doctoral degrees there while had to make substan- completing his doctoral research at the Brook- tial adjustments to ings Institute. teaching, learning, In the fall of 1968, Roberts joined the Poli- service and research. tics and Government Department at Illinois After a quick and suc- State as one of its founding professors. Im- cessful transition of mediately, he developed a new course on col- all in-person classes lective decision-making, which he taught until to online in spring 2020, our faculty have his retirement in 2000. He was an instructional since worked diligently to perfect their de- innovator, creating a legislative simulation as a livery. To help our students, faculty and staff teaching device for students to learn about po- have used various means, including virtual litical participation. Roberts was long-serving meetings, frequent email communications From left, David Crumbaugh ’73, donor of the Thomas E. director of the internship program, sponsored and announcements as well as Zoom happy Eimermann Professorship, Distinguished Professor Ali the Model Illinois Government program and hours, to keep in touch with students to Riaz, and Professor Emeritus Thomas Eimermann at the inaugural Thomas E. Eimermann Professorship served as graduate director where he recruited foster a sense of community. As a result, we induction ceremony April 25, 2019. and advised students. have witnessed an impressive retention rate “Knowing that about him, I felt that pro- as the majority of our students have contin- tions. Distinguished Professor Dr. Ali Riaz was viding funding for internships was the best way ued their study in the department during inspired to create the award after receiving the to acknowledge and continue my brother’s life- the pandemic. inaugural Thomas E. Eimermann Professor- work,” Charlotte Roberts said. To recruit the best and brightest stu- ship in Politics and Government. The profes- dents, the department has coordinated with sorship was established by David Crumbaugh the Admissions Office and launched several ’73 to honor his former professor, who taught initiatives, including offering scholarships law-related courses for 38 years at Illinois State. to incoming students, establishing a student Eimermann served as ISU’s first pre-law advisor, ambassador corps, publishing new market- founded and directed the mock trial program, ing materials, and making videos that intro- and was chair of the Political Science Depart- duce and highlight the department. ment from 1992 to 1998. As we have confronted these challenges Riaz joined Illinois State University in 2002 brought by the pandemic, our faculty and and would later chair the Department of Politics students continued to achieve many goals. and Government from 2007 to 2017. In 2018, Bethany Ekwonwa, a double major in po- he was appointed a Distinguished Professor. litical science and legal studies, was selected “I am humbled by the opportunities ISU as a 2020-2021 Bone Scholar. Our Mock and the department offered me since I joined Trial teams participated in several virtual and wanted to express my gratitude to the stu- invitational competitions in Fall 2020 and dents and the department,” Riaz said. “I hope From left, Siblings David, Charlotte, and Fred Roberts in 2010. achieved a respectable record. this award will encourage our graduate students The department has also made sig- to pursue studies in global politics at a time Politics and Government Department nificant accomplishments in research. Two when we live in a deeply interconnected world Chair Dr. T.Y. Wang worked closely with Fred graduate students presented their research at and have much to learn from each other.” Roberts. professional conferences and also had their The inaugural recipient of the Ali Riaz “Dr. Fred Roberts was a committed educa- works published. Faculty have six books and Graduate Student Award in Comparative tor. He had a modest demeanor and was ex- twenty-one journal articles and book chap- Politics and International Relations will be an- tremely generous to others,” Wang said. “We ters published in 2020. Faculty and students nounced at the department’s Annual Award cer- want to thank Fred’s sister, Charlotte Roberts, continued to conduct their research despite emony, scheduled to take place in April 2021. for establishing the Dr. Frederick and Carlene having all university-sanctioned travels sus- Roberts Memorial Internship Fund to honor pended due to the pandemic. Charlotte Roberts his legacy.” Finally, I want to thank our alums, Charlotte Roberts ensured that the legacy of her friends, and (retired) faculty for their gener- brother, Politics and Government Professor Dr. Kay Wilson Fred Roberts, lives on at Illinois State following ous contributions to the department. Your Kay Wilson ’63 has been a longtime supporter his death on February 26, 2019. She used funds support has kept us strong. of the Politics and Government Department. from his estate to establish the Dr. Frederick Dr. T.Y. Wang Her late husband, Thomas D. Wilson ’59, was and Carlene Roberts Memorial Internship a professor in the department for 31 years. His

4 DEPARTMENT OF POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT | POL.ILLINOISSTATE.EDU Wang joined Illinois State University in 1990 as an assistant professor. He achieved the rank of full professor in 2002 and has served as department chair since 2017. Prior to that, he served as associate chair, associate director in International Studies and Programs, and since 2004 has co-edited the prestigious Journal of Asian and African Studies. He is a key scholar on East Asian politics with a special emphasis on Taiwan. He has published multiple books, 50 journal articles/book chapters, and has been Distinguished Professor Professor Noha Shawki invited to present at institutions around the Ali Riaz world. In 2015, he received the college’s Out- standing Researcher award. Department. He teaches several undergraduate Wang is a committed educator and pro- courses on comparative politics. His area of ex- motes empirical research in political science of- pertise includes South Asian politics. He is also ten choosing to teach the methodology courses a nonresident fellow of the Washington, D.C.- in the department. He has been frequently based Atlantic Council. invited to conduct workshops on empirical Kay B. and Thomas D. Wilson Shawki’s area of expertise is international methodology in prestigious foreign institutions. relations, and she teaches several undergraduate dedication to his students, especially those pur- courses on international organizations. Shawki suing public service internships, inspired him to also leads the ISU Model United Nations team establish the Thomas D. Wilson Award in 2013 and several civic engagement initiatives of the to assist unpaid interns with their expenses. To- department. Recipients of 2020 award was rec- day, the award motivates and rewards outstand- ognized in the fall. ing students whose internship experiences con- Han, Rankin and Robinson tinue to impact their lives. In 2018, Kay Wilson furthered the family’s Received the RISE Award legacy by establishing the Wilson Family Model Members of the United Nations Endowment. The endowment Department of awards travel and registration costs for students Politics and Gov- who attend Model United Nations through Il- ernment received linois State University. Political Science gradu- President Larry Dietz and Dr. T.Y. Wang recognition for ate student Grace Burgener ’20 was among 10 their exemplary Illinois State Students who attended the 2019 Two of his textbooks are widely used by gradu- service to the de- National Model United Nations conference in ate students and scholars in China and Taiwan. partment during New York. He also disseminates his work through online the pandemic. “Model United Nations was a tremendous outlets such as the Monkey Cage, an academic Jennifer Han, of- experience for me because I was able to learn Office Manager Jennifer Han peer-reviewed blog that regularly attracts mil- fice manager; Erik more about diplomacy, international relations, lions of views. Rankin, director and the operations of the U.N.,” Burgener said. of Enrollment T.Y. Wang, chair of the Department of Poli- Riaz and Shawki Recognized Management tics and Government attributes Kay Wilson’s with Impact Award and Undergradu- generosity to the department’s ability to provide ate Studies; and meaningful, hands-on learning opportunities to Department of Politics and Government Pro- graduate student its students. fessors Ali Riaz and Noha Shawki are recog- Gordon Robinson “Through their generous donations, the nized with this year’s Impact Award. have been selected department has been able to support students’ Sponsored by University College, the Im- to receive the Red- civic engagement activities. We are most grate- pact Award is designed to show appreciation for Gordon Robinson (second- birds RISE to the ful for Kay’s and Tom’s generosity,” Wang said. individual members of the campus community year graduate student) COVID Challenge who have made an impact on new students and Award. Wang Named University on student retention. Recipients include advi- The RISE Professor sors, students, and faculty who were nominated Award was es- by freshmen. Since 2013, new freshmen and Illinois State University’s Office of the Provost tablished by the new transfer students have nominated Illinois announced Professor of Politics and Govern- Provost’s Office State faculty, staff, and students for an Impact ment T.Y. Wang has been named University to recognize the Award. Professor. work of students, Riaz is a Distinguished Professor of the Professor Erik Rankin faculty, and staff

2021 | ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY 5 “who have exemplified one or more of the RISE The principal investigator of the project is tion with insti- attributes: Resilience/Resourcefulness, Innova- Dr. L.J. Zigerell, the department’s assessment tutional strate- tion, Service, Empathy in the performance of director. The project will be conducted in fall gies to construct their job functions and, in doing so, have posi- 2020 and spring 2021. regime legiti- tively impacted the Division of Academic Af- macy in com- fairs.” Brown Bag Presentation petitive authori- Md. Sohel Rana, tarian regimes. Department Receives 2020-2021 a second-year graduate stu- dent presented his ongoing research on legiti- He develops a Assessment Initiative Award mation strategies of the new authoritarian re- broader theoreti- cal framework The Illinois State University Assessment Advi- gimes at the department’s brownbag series on combining both sory Council and University Assessment Ser- September 10. His presentation was titled “The institutional and vices staff has selected a proposal submitted by Construction of Regime Legitimacy: How Do non-institutional Sohel Rana (second-year the Department of Politics and Government Competitive Authoritarian Regimes Legiti- graduate student) elements to ana- for a 2020-2021 Assessment Initiative Award. mize their Rule?” His research investigates the lyze three strategies for regime legitimization: The proposed project focuses on informing institutional and the non-institutional aspects procedural, performance, and ideological. departmental faculty how to best design and of regime legitimization in the rising new au- Sohel contends that in the presence of pro- implement their future online courses through thoritarian regimes. His research explores three cedural and performance legitimization, ideo- indirect evidence from students regarding their case studies, which share dissimilar historical, logical legitimization builds the bridge between recent online course experiences. cultural, ideological, and demographic charac- “legitimacy claims” (of the rulers) and “legiti- In its award letter, the committee noted the teristics. macy beliefs” (of the ruled), which eventually importance of the project because it “provides Sohel argues that the conventional litera- construct legitimacy in authoritarian regimes. an important initiative that examines student ture broadly identifies institutional strategies By exploring this linkage and explaining how learning in online courses, both synchronous for regime legitimization, including elections, ideology helps create legitimacy, he intends to and asynchronous, and the elements of course co-optation and repression, and economic per- add new knowledge to the existing literature. design and instruction that students perceive to formance, but largely ignores non-institutional Sohel is currently working on his thesis. His best promote their learning, as well as the extent strategies such as ideological narratives as a thesis committee members are Professors Ali to which those perceptions may be different mode for regime legitimacy. He examines how Riaz, Yusuf Sarfati, and Mike Hendricks. across course modalities and student character- non-institutional strategies work in combina- istics.”

WHERE ARE THEY NOW? During his 34 years as a faculty member in the Department of Politics and Govern- ment, Gary Klass made an impact both on ISU’s campus and across the community. With a doctorate from State University of New York at Binghamton, Klass was prepared to teach a variety of courses, including public policy, race and ethnicity, and quantitative research methods. He contributed on campus as a member of the University’s Academic Senate, cre- ating much controversy when he opposed the construction of the Redbird Arena. He was also a voice in his field as an author of journal articles and the book Just Plain Data Analysis, which teaches practical statistical skills not often taught in statistics courses. Beyond his academic life, Klass played a significant role in the University’s Habitat

Professor Emeritus Gary Klass for Humanity chapter. He has been involved with the ISU student volunteers since the campus chapter formed in the mid-1990s, serving as a faculty advisor and project director. ISU students have partnered with Illinois Wesleyan University to construct 26 houses in 25 years. The chapters have been recognized as the Habitat Collegiate Chapter of the Year in 2010, and are recipients of the Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Partnership Award. His dedication was recognized by the College of Arts and Sciences in 2005, when he received the Outstanding Service Award. Klass also received a Lifetime Achievement Habitat Hero Award last fall. The honor recognizes the many years that Klass has raised funds and worked at construction sites on weekends. He continues to do both and remains a project director in his retirement, which began in 2015. He resides in Normal with his wife, Patricia, who is retired faculty from ISU’s College of Education. Beyond his priority to create positive relationships in the community and meet housing needs through Habitat, Klass spends much of his time trying to beat fellow Politics and Government faculty retiree, Bob Bradley, at golf.

6 DEPARTMENT OF POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT | POL.ILLINOISSTATE.EDU FACULTY AND SCHOLARLY NEWS

Faculty Changes skills that students and Science Association and a poster accepted for recent graduates need presentation at the International Society for Po- Professor Jason Cieslik joined the Illinois State to know to success- litical Psychology; both conferences were can- faculty as an assistant professor of Legal Studies fully place themselves celled due to the pandemic. in the Department of Politics and Government. on the job market. Cieslik earned his Juris Doc- Professor Erik Rankin attended Stoicon 2020 Cultural Competence in torate (2004) from Western (international Stoicism conference) and pre- Higher Education with Michigan University, Thomas sented his article titled “Political Civility” dur- Tiffany Puckett is a M. Cooley Law School and his ing the lightning round talks. The article was cutting edge book that B.S. in criminal justice (2001) published in the October issue of The Stoic Gym. focuses on the impact from Washburn University. of diversity in univer- Professor Ali Riaz published two book chap- From 2012-2020, Cieslik sity classrooms. ters, two journal articles, 20 non-refereed ar- was the program coordina- ticles, delivered six invited presentations in Professor Thomas McClure co-authored Fun- tor and professor of Paralegal person within and outside the United States, Professor Jason and Criminal Justice Studies damentals of Criminal Law and Procedure for Cieslik made one conference presentation, and partici- Paralegals plus the instructor’s manual (Wolt- at South Suburban College in pated in 11 webinars. He was interviewed and ers Kluwer, 2nd ed). He was lead author of “An South Holland. From 2005-2012, Cieslik was a quoted in international media 21 times. Riaz Empirical Look at Programs Applying for ABA partner at Barmann, Bohlen, Jacobi & Cieslik, received the Impact Award. He served as a Non- Approval: Does Program Director Longevity P.C. in Kankakee, and also served as an assistant resident Senior Fellow of the Atlantic Council Matter?” appearing in The Legal Educator. He state’s attorney for Kankakee County. In addi- and a consultant to the Center for International authored a treatise used for the arrest expunge- tion to teaching in the Legal Studies Program, Private Enterprises. The webinars were orga- ment clinic the Legal Studies Program operates Cieslik will serve as the academic advisor for Le- nized among others by Conflict and Resilience with Prairie State Legal Services. He appeared as gal Studies. Cieslik’s research interests will focus Research Institute, Canada, Independent Uni- a featured contributor in Paralegal Today (Cen- on criminal law and procedure. versity of Bangladesh, Centre for Governance gage Publishing). U.S. News and World Report Professor Katelyn Schachtschneider left the Studies. Riaz, presented a co-authored paper interviewed him for “What Does a Paralegal Department of Politics and Government. with Sohel Rana at the APSA virtual annual Do and How to Become One” published in the conference. Professor Noha Shawki is on sabbatical leave January 16, 2020 issue. spring 2021. Professor Lori Riverstone-Newell published Professor Kerri Milita published three articles The Local Power & Politics Review, an annual in Public Opinion Quarterly, Political Science Scholarly Activities report examining local governments’ power and Research and Methods and the Journal of Public capacity to meet local needs. The Review exam- Professor Michael Hendricks published an Policy, with an additional forthcoming article in ines the impact of article entitled “Minería: ¿El Elixir de la Vida the Journal of Politics. She also received an ex- abusive state pre- o la Fruta Prohibida? Un Examen Empírico de ternal grant in the amount of $25,000 from the emption on local las Oportunidades y Amenazas de la Minería en American Political Science Association’s Special equity efforts, and Santo Domingo, Nicaragua: Una Comunidad Projects Fund. She was scheduled to make three individual health, Dividida Sobre la Minería” in Quid 16: Revista conference presentations at the Midwest Po- social, and eco- del Área de Estudios Urbanos. He also presented litical Science Association, and was an invited nomic well-being. research and served as a panel discussant at the panelist at the 2020 meeting of the Illinois Contributors in- Southern Political Science Association’s annual Broadcaster’s Association on survey and polling clude the research- conference in Puerto Rico in January. Hen- methodology. She also served as section head for ers, legal scholars, dricks was also expected to present research the State Politics Section of the Midwest Politi- and on-the-ground at the Midwest Political Science Association’s cal Science Association’s 2021 conference. advocates who are annual conference in April, but due to COV- Professor Carl Palmer published two articles. leading the charge to course-correct through ID-19, the conference was canceled. The first, “Toxic Mask-ulinity: The Link Be- efforts such as preemption repeal, educational Professor Nancy S. Lind published three books tween Masculine Toughness and Affective Reac- home rule reform. These experts worked as ad- in 2020. Governing Illinois with Erik Rankin is tions to Mask-Wearing in the COVID-19 Era,” vocate-researcher co-authors to produce short in its fifth edition and underwent significant appeared in Politics and Gender and has been articles across seven policy fields: Public Health; changes updating the book and adding an entire featured in articles in Mother Jones and The New Civil Rights and Discrimination; Environmen- new section on policy issues in Illinois. It has York Times. The second, “Physical Attractive- tal Policy; Emerging Technologies; Housing frequently been adopted as a textbook in high ness, Halo Effects, and Social Joining” appeared Policy; Labor Policy; and Local Fiscal Authority. schools and universities throughout the state. in Social Science Quarterly. Both articles were Professor Kam Shapiro presented “Destabiliz- Navigating the Open Road is a brand new text co-authored with Rolfe D. Peterson of Susque- ing Racial Differences in the Detective Fiction authored for professional development classes hanna University. He also had two papers ac- of Chester Himes” at the 2020 American Po- in the social sciences. It highlights the types of cepted for presentation at the Midwest Political litical Science Association National Conference.

2021 | ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY 7 The virtual conference was help September 10- 13. FACULTY RECOGNIZED Professor Noha Shawki published a book co- Faculty Honored at the Awards Ceremony authored with Melissa Professor L.J Zigerell was awarded the Pi Sigma Alpha Excellence in Teaching Award, as well as Schnyder titled Advo- the Hibbert R. Roberts Teaching Excellence Recognition Award. cating for Refugees in the European Union. Norm- Hendricks Received the New Faculty Initiative Grant for 2020 Based Strategies by Civil Society Organizations (Lexington Books). Professor Michael Hendricks received the College of Arts and Sciences New Faculty Initiative Grant ($3,500) to conduct field research in mining communities in Nicaragua and Mexico. Data Professor T.Y. Wang was recognized as an ISU from the interviews will be used in several research projects that Hendricks is working on in rela- University Professor, a designation that honors tion to resource extraction in Latin America. faculty members who have achieved national/ international recognition for scholarly research Milita Awarded External Grant from American Political Science and teaching. In 2020, he published one co-au- Association’s Special Projects Fund thored journal article and three commentaries, with one co-authored journal article forthcom- Professor Kerri Milita was awarded an external grant in the amount of $25,000 from the Ameri- ing in Asian Survey. He delivered three invited can Political Science Association’s Special Projects’ Fund. Grant funds will be used to increase the presentations and presented a paper at the presence of women political scientists in the media and the ability of women political scientists APSA virtual annual conference. His published to effectively respond to media requests. Part of this goal will be achieved by hosting a virtual co-authored article is titled “Generational Dif- one-day event with representatives of local and national media, representatives from relevant ference of Taiwan Identity” (in Journal of Elec- foundations, and women political scientists, with a focus on members of historically marginal- toral Studies). The three commentaries examine lessons to be learned from Taiwan’s dealing with ized communities such as Black women from local Historically Black Colleges and Universities the coronavirus pandemic (in the Taiwan In- (HBCUs). After the online gathering, there will be a media guide published for political scientists. sight) and China’s suppressive responses to the democratic movement in Hong Kong (in The Diplomat). Professor L.J Zigerell published “US Public Perceptions of an Intelligence Quotient Test Score Gap between Black Americans and White Americans” in Political Studies Review.

COLLEGE Professor L.J. Zigerell Professor Michael Hendricks Professor Kerri Milita NEWSLETTER

Each week the college publishes a weekly electronic newsletter, CASNews. It shares the latest achievements of faculty, staff, students, and alumni. If you would STUDENT NEWS AND ACTIVITIES like to receive the newsletter electroni- cally, please send an email message to Mock Trial Team Continues This season ISU is comprised of two squads. [email protected]. Tradition of Success During Kyla Egizio, Parker Francisco, Connor Martin, the Pandemic Carlos Montenegro, Amelia O’Neil, McKenna Plotner, and Nadalie Ponce are members of In July, the American Mock Trial Association Squad 1033. Squad 1034 is made up of Tim (AMTA) announced that regional and cham- VISIT US Cook, Caitlyn Danielson, Sarah Feltes, Tyler pionship tournaments for the 2020-21 sea- Gray-Henry, Paige Malloy, Brock Melrose, and If you are interested in being invited back son would be held entirely online. Following Jasmyne Wells. to campus as a distinguished alum, AMTA’s lead, schools sponsoring invitationals After the first few weeks of practices, the began holding competitions as online events. please send current vitae to coaches decided that Zoom practices are more Accordingly, the Illinois State University mock [email protected]. effective than face-to-face in preparing for “vir- trial program revamped how the season would tual” tournaments. They also decided to enter unfold.

8 DEPARTMENT OF POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT | POL.ILLINOISSTATE.EDU In mid-November, both squads earned win- ning records at the first-annual George Floyd Memorial Tournament, hosted by Hamline University. Squad 1033 took both ballots from University of St. Thomas and Macalaster Col- lege. It split with University of Central Missouri and lost its round against University of Califor- nia-Berkeley. Squad 1034 lost its round with Harvard University, won rounds against Drake University and Carthage College, and split bal- lots with Villanova University. Team members won five individual awards. Nadalie Ponce was a double award recipient as an outstanding at- torney and an outstanding witness. Parker Fran- cisco was named an outstanding attorney. The tournament also recognized Kyla Egizio and Connor Martin as outstanding witnesses. The team competed in tournaments hosted by Central College, the University of Colorado at Boulder, and Loras College in January. The team’s competitive post-season started the first weekend in February at a virtual regional tour- nament sponsored by AMTA. Due the pandemic, the coaching staff can- celed the 2020 fall ISU mock trial invitational. Now that millions of Americans are receiving vaccinations, the program has scheduled the next invitational tournament for November 5-7, 2021, at the McLean County Law and Jus- tice Center. Illinois State has hosted this event for over 20 years. The lead attorney coach of the team is Josh Rinker ’06, a Bloomington attorney in private practice, who was an All-American award-win- ner for the ISU mock trial team when he was an undergraduate student at Illinois State. He is assisted by Brad Rigdon, the first assistant state’s attorney for McLean County. Professor Tom McClure is the educator coach. Central Illinois Paralegal Associ- ation Awards Four Legal Studies Top photo, Mock Trial Squad 1033; Bottom photo, Mock Trial Squad 1034 Students Scholarships tournaments that hosted schools from outside the competition. Squad 1034 garnered a 4-4 The Central Illinois Paralegal Association of the region so that the team could face more record, winning rounds against Carthage Col- (CIPA) offers students enrolled in a local para- competitors from outside of the Midwest. To lege and Winona State while losing to Central legal studies program the opportunity to receive prepare for three fall tournaments, team mem- College and Wheaton College. Connor Martin a $500 scholarship. In December, CIPA named bers participated in Zoom sessions with their received an individual award for outstanding four Illinois State University legal studies stu- coaches. performance in his witness portrayal. dents the winners of this grant. The scholar- In mid-October, the team competed at the The third-annual Colonel Classic Invita- ship recipients are Legal Studies (LGS)/Political “Testing the Waters Invitational,” sponsored by tional, sponsored by Eastern Kentucky Univer- Science double majors Amanda Pinkham and Loras College. Squad 1033 won both judges’ sity, was held the weekend of October 31-No- Paris Hall, LGS minor Haley Schnapp, and ballots in rounds against Luther College and vember 1. Squad 1033 won two of six ballots, undergraduate LGS certificate student Amanda Winona State University. It split ballots with and squad 1034 tied one ballot but lost the re- Watson. Dillard University. Squad 1033 lost one ballot maining seven. Despite these disappointing re- Applicants for the scholarship submitted es- and tied the other against Loyola University, the sults, there was a silver lining. Both teams took says about what they learned about themselves second-place team of the tournament. The 5-2- the next two weeks to work harder to improve that might assist them in navigating a future 1 record put the squad in fourth place in their performances. These efforts paid off. career as a paralegal in light of the transforma-

2021 | ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY 9 Paralegal Advisory Committee since it was vestigated whether Illinois State students made formed in 2007. a difference in the Bloomington-Normal com- munity. McReynolds surveyed seven commu- Academic Activities nity organizations that have worked with the Md. Sohel Rana, a graduate student, and Dis- University for at least five years. The results were tinguished Professor Ali Riaz co-authored a overwhelmingly positive, with several organiza- paper at the American Political Science Associa- tions noting that Illinois State students bring tion (APSA) National Conference. The virtual unique assets that are vital to their organization. conference was held September 10-13. Their Student Highlights Paris Hall Amanda Pinkham paper, entitled “How Democracy Backslides: Tracing the Pathway in Six Countries,” exam- Nargiza Yusupova shares study ines the processes of democratic backsliding in abroad experience at Bilkent six countries of Asia, Africa, and Europe, name- University ly Bangladesh, Bolivia, Mali, Turkey, Ukraine, Political science graduate student Nargiza Yu- and Zambia. It supova had an amazing experience studying draws on data abroad. She recently spoke about her experi- from the Freedom ence. House and the Va- “Whenever you have an opportunity to see rieties of Democ- another culture and live in a foreign country, racy. The paper take advantage of it! Before going for an ex- Haley Schnapp Amanda Watson examines whether change program to Bilkent University in An- there are specific kara, Turkey, I already knew that I would enjoy tions brought on by the COVID-19 health cri- milestones in the it and gain lifetime experience,” Yusupova said. sis. All four women shared how the pandemic process of demo- “Bilkent University is one of the best universi- impacted them. cratic backsliding, ties in Turkey and all the professors are highly “Throughout the pandemic, I have learned and how the pro- Sohel Rana experienced. All classes in Bilkent were con- from kindness and from hardship,” Pinkham cess proceeds. The ducted in English, and I was able to carry in- said. “The kindness I received reminded me why paper was presented at the iposter session of the teresting discussions with peers whose English I chose this career path in the first place, and I Democracy and Autocracy division. language skills were very advanced. In other hope to use these realizations to make me a bet- Joel McReynolds, a graduate student, was se- ter paralegal.” lected as a GradBird Scholar. One challenge all “You grow when your life is hectic, every- researchers must overcome is how to explain thing has changed, and you’re forced to adapt,” their work to a general audience. The Graduate Hall said. “Despite the fact that this deadly vi- School launched the GradBird Scholar initiative rus has definitely put a damper on the entire in September 2019 in an effort to make schol- year, it brought me out of my shell and allowed arly research more accessible while honoring the me to see a different side to myself—a side that scholarship of Illinois State students. I would have never seen if this pandemic didn’t Each month, a committee of graduate stu- happen, so I am forever grateful for that.” dents, faculty, and staff selects a new GradBird “Having the ability to adapt to your sur- Scholar, who is chosen from a cohort of students Nargiza Yusupova at Pierre Loti Hill in Istanbul, Turkey. roundings, work under pressure, and remain who self-nominate for the award. Submissions positive are three qualities that I have either are judged on the quality of the research and gained or strengthened during the COVID-19 how clearly it is explained. The winners receive words, if you choose to go to Bilkent University health crisis that would assist me as a paralegal,” a monetary award and are highlighted in a video you don’t have to worry about classes and their Schnapp said. shared on social media. Last year, about a dozen content”. Watson wrote that the pandemic made her students submit- Yusupova noted that at Bilkent students se- “realize just how important it is to complete ted nominations lect classes from a pool of department courses. my certificate, so I have more security for my each month. There are many options to choose from, and future. I have worked so hard and persevered McReynolds selection is not limited. While studying at to change the trajectory of the life I have been was selected as a Bilkent, the ESN group responsible for Eras- given versus the life I want and see for myself.” GradBird Scholar mus/exchange students will organize several CIPA is a National Association of Legal As- in March 2020. trips around Turkey and weekly gatherings, sistants affiliate and is composed of volunteer In collaboration giving students an opportunity to make new paralegals working every day to advance the with the Center friends from all around the world. paralegal profession. Carolyn Pitts, a paralegal Joel McReynolds, master’s for Community “Additionally, it is cheap to live and travel with the Champaign firm of Erwin, Martinkus, student, Stevenson Center Engagement and around Turkey because of the recent Turkish lira & Cole, is the acting chair of the CIPA scholar- for Community and Economic devaluation against the U.S. dollar,” Yusupova Development and Department Service Learning, ship committee. Pitts has served on the ISU of Politics and Government. McReynolds in said. “You will also receive a monthly stipend.

10 DEPARTMENT OF POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT | POL.ILLINOISSTATE.EDU STUDENT RECOGNIZED

Ekwonwa Named Bone Scholar

Bethany Ekwonwa, a double major in Political Science and Legal Studies and a member of the Honors Program, has been selected as a Bone Scholar for 2020-2021. The Bone Scholarship is the highest award an undergraduate at Illinois State University can receive.

Nargiza Yusupova at the student farewell ceremony at Ekwonwa has stood out in her classes because of Bilkent University. her excellent academic skills, her work ethic, and her leadership. In addition to her excellent academic record, I was very surprised when my coordinator at Ekwonwa has been very involved on campus and in the Bilkent told me that all graduate students re- community. She has served as vice-president of the Afri- ceive a monthly stipend and do not necessarily can Student Union and as secretary of the Black Student hold GA positions.” She also talked about how the exchange Union at ISU. She has also volunteered with “Summer agreement enables a student going to Bilkent Suppers for the Homeless” and is actively involved in the to live on campus and receive free housing ac- Black Lives Matter movement in Bloomington-Normal. commodations. Yusupova said that she enjoyed In addition to balancing her classes and her campus Bethany Ekwonwa her time at Bilkent University and met excellent and community activities, Ekwonwa also works in retail people. and has held leadership positions in her sales team. “The classes were interesting, and I learned a lot from my Turkish peers,” Yusupova said. “This exchange program also gave me an op- portunity to practice my Turkish language The Stevenson Center for Community to enable community members to facilitate skills and improve them significantly. I have no and Economic Development cultivates leaders these sessions. regrets whatsoever that I decided to do an ex- to positively impact communities. Fellows are Being an AmeriCorps member means going change program and would like to encourage required to have at least a year of relevant expe- beyond the position requirements and looking other ISU students to go to Bilkent University.” rience prior to admission. Fellows have served for new ways to fill unmet needs. All Ameri- Stevenson Center Spotlight with Peace Corps or AmeriCorps, or they have Corps members commemorate the Martin Lu- worked for nonprofit organizations or govern- ther King Jr. holiday through service. Peace Corps Fellow Serving With ment agencies. Fellows pursue a master’s degree Arnold used the event to create a project AmeriCorps Uses Art to Promote in anthropology, applied economics, political that will live on long after his work in Berwyn Inclusion and Community science, kinesiology and recreation, or sociol- is done: the 2020 Inclusion Project. Arnold Peace Corps Fellow Ryan Arnold has always ogy, each with an interdisciplinary sequence brought together local groups to involve middle had a penchant for making things happen, even in applied community and economic develop- and high school students in social justice con- before joining the Stevenson Center. Before ment. versations, engaged artists to help the students starting his master’s degree, Arnold served with The program requires an intense year of on- paint a mural, raised all of the necessary re- the Peace Corps in Cameroon from 2011 to campus study, followed by 11 months of paid sources, and energized the community around 2013 as a youth development coordinator. He professional practice. Arnold is finishing his the project. The students participated in a series worked on various grassroots projects, ranging professional practice with the Berwyn Develop- of workshops that covered Dr. King’s life and from public health to water and sanitation. Ar- ment Corporation, where he is serving as a full- nold went on to work at CARE for AIDS for time AmeriCorps member. four years as the African operations director. In Arnold is leading a community strategic 2018, Arnold joined the Stevenson Center to planning process. He developed and adminis- pursue a master’s degree in political science. tered a resident survey, planned and facilitated “After years of working in the international focus groups, and ran a workshop with almost nonprofit sector, I was excited to study political 100 residents. Among other projects, he created science and dig into deeper understandings of and managed a volunteer database, designed the power structures that create the inequalities and implemented marketing and outreach that make the nonprofit sector necessary in the projects, and researched best practices. With first place,” Arnold said. “I am looking forward Illinois under shelter-at-home orders due to to continuing to work in the nonprofit sector COVID-19, Arnold is working remotely. One in a way that addresses root causes, not just im- of his new projects is developing virtual com- Ryan Arnold (far right) with members of his community mediate needs.” munity meetings and creating training materials in Cameroon during his 2011-2013 Peace Corps service.

2021 | ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY 11 legacy, drawing and sketching techniques, and came a long-term, community project with how public art can be used as a community multiple partners and a corporate sponsor,” Ar- HONORS/AWARDS development tool. The final mural commemo- nold said. “That process was a great reminder rates the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. and that it really doesn’t take much to bring people Undergraduate Awards celebrates Berwyn’s racial and cultural diversity. together to create positive change. I’ve found Wonderfully, the groups will continue to that a lot of people are looking for ways to get Hibbert R. Roberts paint additional murals in Berwyn, providing involved and make a difference. Why not be the Outstanding Senior Award a meaningful experience for middle and high person who has the idea, who creates the oppor- Ava Garcia school students along the way. tunity, and who makes things happen?” Alice Ebel Outstanding “The mural project that is still in progress Arnold is the recipient of this year’s Gradu- Graduating Senior Award was a just spark of an idea in August that grew ate Student Civic Engagement Award from the Andrew Prom as I had conversations with stakeholders and be- Department of Politics and Government. Alice Ebel Award Hannah Brunier Chance Cook Anna Kraft ALUMNI NEWS Cheyanne Pincsak Savannah Remkus Claudia Chavez Named Insurance Committee Thomas Wilson Internship Award Senior Appointee in and the Senate Public Matthew Gawlik Biden Administration Pension Committee Trey Georgie (1979-1981). Later I Department of Politics and Government alum accepted employment Thomas More Scholarship Claudia Chavez ’05 has been appointed as a in Political Philosophy at the IL Insurance White House liaison of the U.S. Department Carolyn Hannon Department as their of Education. Her Legislative Liaison. I Frank M. and Hermina R. Giordano involvement in Stu- successfully worked on Scholarship dent Government Workers Compensa- John Davis ’78 Mary O’Brien Association allowed tion reform (deregula- Walter S. G. Kohn Award her to explore and tion of pricing) in 1982 that reduced workers Hannah Anderson develop her inter- compensation premiums for Illinois business by ests. 30 percent on average. This was the height of Jamal R. Nassar Scholarship Chavez held Amanda Pinkham the Cold War between the Soviet Union and the different positions United States. I wanted to do my part to defeat Claudia Chavez ’05 John P. Freese Scholarship with Chicago Mayor communism. I joined the U.S. Marine Corps Bethany Ekwonwa Rahm Emanuel, in- Reserves (artillery), and still maintained my job cluding deputy director for the Mayor’s Office George J. Gordon Scholarship in U.S. at the insurance department. of Legislative Council and Government Affairs. Public Affairs My current job [is with] the Fleet Reserve She most recently served as a member of the Ed- Jennifer Scara Association (FRA) as Director of (federal) Leg- Michele Calabrese ucation Agency Review Team for the President islative Programs. I have testified before Con- Joe Biden-Vice President Kamala Harris Transi- gress on several occasions. I write testimony, a Equity and Inclusion Advocacy Award tion and on the Biden for President campaign as weekly legislative newsletter, a monthly column Samiat Solebo Midwest deputy director. for the association magazine, and position pa- Chavez was one of the distinguished alumni Subfield Awards pers used on Capitol Hill. I [also] organize the of Politics and Government in its celebration of annual Capitol Hill reception for awarding leg- American Government Illinois State University’s 2017 Homecoming islator of the year award to selected representa- Brody Frieden event. tive or senator. I plan the “Storming the Hill” Comparative Politics & International John Davis Shares Reflections event that provides an opportunity for activist members to meet their legislators to discuss Relations on His Career Path Grace Burgener specific issues. A big legislative victory for FRA My name is John Davis and I attended ISU last year was enactment of substantial improve- Public Administration ments for military widow benefits. Joshua Leonard from 1974-1978 as a Political Science major. I was a member of the College Republicans When I went to ISU, I considered it a privi- Public Law all four years, and my last year I was elected lege not an entitlement. I was very excited to go Jessica McCann President of the College Republicans. While at to college at a big university. I was the second school I was a charter member of Sigma Pi fra- and last of my five siblings that had the oppor- ternity (EH Chapter). I also worked on some of tunity to go to a four-year college. Looking back the local area election campaigns as a volunteer. on my life, I am proud to be a Marine and I am I worked as a GOP staffer for the Senate very proud to be an ISU Redbird alumnus.

12 DEPARTMENT OF POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT | POL.ILLINOISSTATE.EDU Bill Dwoinen 2020 Redbird Pierucci received a B.A. degree in politi- Proud recipient cal science from Loyola University Chicago in 2012, an M.S. degree in political science from Pre-Law Awards Bill Dwoinen, an alum of the Department of ISU in 2014, and an M.S. degree in economics Outstanding Legal Studies Politics and Government is a recipient of the from Purdue University in 2018 prior to com- Student Award 2020 Redbird Proud Young Alumni Award. pleting his Ph.D. at Purdue University in 2020. Colleen Holliday Dwoinen’s Redbird Proud memory was, “As a He is currently working as a Senior Economic Carl Kasten Pre-Law Leadership Analyst at Caterpillar Inc. in Peoria and plans Award to continue working for Caterpillar. He also Shaina Andrews plans to publish his ongoing research projects that focus on game theoretic applications in in- Tom Eimermann Outstanding ternational security. Pre-Law Student Award Natalie Balnius

Nikita Richards Honored Barry S. Tolchin Mock Trial by the State of Illinois Leadership Award Erin Monroe Nikita Richards ’06, M.S. ’15, has over 10 years of experience in the communication in- Mock Trial Outstanding Witness From left, Department Chair and Professor T.Y Wang, Bill Dwoinen ’04, and Professor Nancy Lind dustry, guiding companies through how to sur- Award vive the next wave of marketing, data analytics Nadalie Ponce student, it was easy to have pride during Home- and innovative Michael A. Hall Mock Trial coming when you would see how excited people customer rela- Outstanding Attorney Award were to come back and reconnect with former tions. She is the Elizabeth Adebiyi classmates. The other thing that was very im- owner of NDR pactful for me as a student was interacting with Communications Graduate Awards which focuses on successful alumni. At that age and point of my Outstanding Graduate Student Award crisis diversion, life, being successful wasn’t something I thought Zunaid Almamun could happen to me.” management and political com- Outstanding Graduate Student Anthony Pierucci Earns Ph.D. munication. She Service Award is currently the Rhiannon Stringer Tony Pierucci, who graduated from the Depart- employment co- ment of Politics and Government in 2014 with Graduate Student Civic ordinator for the Engagement Award an M.S. degree in political science, recently de- Nikita Richards ’06, M.S. ’15 City of Bloom- Ryan Arnold fended his disser- ington where she tation in political manages the city’s Pi Sigma Alpha Inductees science at Purdue recruitment, selection of qualified candidates, University. His Elizabeth Bills and training and development to meet the hir- dissertation title Emilija Deksnys ing needs of a 12-department, 10,000-member is “Signaling or Dawson Diederich workforce. Safeguarding: Kyla Egizio A United States Navy veteran, Richards was The Logic of Matthew Gawlik appointed to serve on Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s transi- Mobilization in Trey Georgie tion team in late 2018 for Illinois veterans and Osvaldo Gomez Crisis Bargain- has since been appointed to the Illinois Council Paris Hall ing”. His disser- on Women and Girls in the spring of 2019. James Lewandowski tation research Richards’ civic and professional contribu- Jessica McCann uses game theory tions have also been recently recognized by Carlos Montenegro Anthony Pierucci ’14 to understand the State of Illinois. Treasurer Michael Frerichs Robert North when mobiliza- presented Richards with the 2020 Outstanding Haley Oros tion is an efficient strategy in diplomatic crises. Service in Leadership Award for her strength, Andrew Prom The central argument is that mobilization is a courage, and leadership across the state. A U.S. Ryan Roth bet hedging strategy, in which a state simulta- Navy veteran, Richards owns NDR Communi- Pamela Rubi neously signals its resolve over a foreign policy cations, which focuses on crisis diversion, man- Jennifer Scara issue and prepares for war in the event deter- Dylan Toth agement, and political communication. She is rence fails. This suggests that mobilization is Elise Weidner the employment coordinator for the City of most valuable in a diplomatic crisis when early Rachel Young Bloomington. A member of ISU’s Alumni As- preparation provides military benefits, there is sociation Board, Richards has been appointed pessimism about the success of deterrence, and by Pritzker to the Illinois Council on Women the state is risk averse. and Girls.

2021 | ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY 13 Daniel Wagner Receives also a board member for the Illinois Chamber of different posi- the 2020 Distinguished Commerce. Last summer, Wagner was selected tions on vari- Alumni Award as an Edgar Fellow, an award offered only to the ous boards and most up and coming leaders in the state, found- committees that Dan Wagner ’89, M.S. ’94, was honored by Il- ed and supported by former Gov. Jim Edgar. together speak linois State University with one of its highest Perhaps his most proud moment, however, to an impressive awards, the 2020 Distinguished Alumni Award. was his Advocacy Award from the Illinois Parks commitment to Mr. Wagner and Recreation Association, for his work in the real estate has been building the first special needs park in Whea- industry and to ‘Redbird ton, Illinois. As the father of a child with au- civic engage- Daniel Wagner ’89, M.S. ’94 Proud’ since tism, he saw a gap in services provided to those ment. These po- his first days children and worked tirelessly to pass a special sitions include on campus needs referendum to get the park built. And as treasurer and president-elect of Illinois REAL- and served in Wagner ends his presentations, in the spirit of TORS®, president of the Chicago Association many lead- President Larry Dietz, he says, “Go you Red- of REALTORS®, commissioner on the DuPage ership roles birds.” The Edgar Fellows Program was estab- Airport Authority, trustee for The Conservation as a student lished by Edgar to develop leaders at the state Foundation, board member for the Civic Fed- that carried and community levels and focuses on develop- eration of Chicago, and board member of the into leader- Daniel Wagner ’89, M.S. ’94 ment of governing capacity in Illinois. Institute for Portfolio Alternatives (IPA). ship roles in Wagner’s professional accomplishments and his career. Wagner was a former Student Re- Wagner Named Secretary of Illi- civic engagement have been recognized with a gent, Academic Senator, and Vice-President and nois Chamber of Commerce Board number of different awards, including the Ad- President of the Association of Residence Halls vocacy Award from the Illinois Park and Rec- Wagner, an alum of the Department of Politics during his time at Illinois State. reation Association, ISU’s College of Arts and and Government and senior vice president of Wagner has been a leader in his professional Sciences Hall of Fame Award, the ISU Division government relations for The Inland Real Es- career as well. Serving as senior vice president of of Student Affairs Steve and Sandi Adams Leg- tate Group of Companies, Inc., was appointed Government Relations for the Inland Real Es- acy Hall of Fame Award, and the ISU Alumni to the position of secretary of the board of the tate Group, he was named as the 2017 Chicago Achievement Award. Realtor of the Year and this year was inducted Illinois Chamber of Commerce. Wagner is cur- into the Hall of Fame for both Illinois Realtors rently the chairman of the Greater Oak Brook and the National Association of Realtors. He is Chamber of Commerce and has held many

For more information, visit Homecoming.IllinoisState.edu

14 DEPARTMENT OF POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT | POL.ILLINOISSTATE.EDU DONOR ROLL january 1–december 31, 2020

David Abbey Esq. and Mrs. Robert Hansen and Mrs. Betty Sue Phillips and Mr. Steven William K. Keene Attorney Margaret Abbey Jo Hansen Phillips at Law Bradley Allen Mark Hocker and Mrs. Jolene Patrick Quist Denise Williams and Mr. Maureen Bradley and Dr. Hocker Ali Riaz and Mrs. Shagufta Ronald Williams Robert Bradley Jillene Hoffman and Mr. Paul Jabeen Mia Williams and Mr. Darius Loretta Broker and Mr. Michael Hoffman Sharon Richardson O’Connor Williams Broker Melanie Impastato and Mr. Thomas Rippey and Mrs. Kay Wilson Thomas Brown and Mrs. Renae David Impastato Maryjane Rippey John Wingertzahn and Ms. Brown Kenneth Janda and Mrs. Ann Charlotte Roberts Megan McKeough Amanda Byassee-Gott and Mr. Janda Sandra Roberts Zack Wolfe and Ms. Kara Ashley Gott Glenn Kadish and Mrs. Jenny Roger Shoup and Mrs. Nancy Wolfe Thomas Campbell and Mrs. Kadish Shoup Nickey Yates Sr. USMC retired Pamela Campbell Carl Kasten and Mrs. Donna Daniel Sommer and Mrs. Julie Cardosi Rogers and Mr. Kasten Pamela Sommer Dean Rogers James Keith and Mrs. Julie Harriett Steinbach and Mr. Erin Clark Keith Lewis Steinbach EDITORS Rita Kohn Kevin Conner and Mrs. Barbara Rachael Toft and Mr. Scott Guest editor, Kerri Milita Conner Scott Kording and Ms. Melanie Timmerman Managing editor, Jasmine Buckner Scott Cooley and Mrs. Kording Bich Tran Bernadette Cooley Alexander Lawrence Jr. Mrs. Michael Tristano and Robert Corder and Mrs. Bernadette Lawrence Mrs. Sandra Tristano Charlene Corder Curtis Linder and Mrs. Nancy Nicole Truong and Mr. Amy Cotter and Mr. Patrick Linder Jason Keller ANNUAL TELEFUND Cotter Linda Loman and Mr. Gary William Turner and Mrs. We would appreciate any help you could Jennifer Cowsert Bendix Rhonda Turner earmark for our program. In the last few John Davis Marc Loro Valerie Turner Walls years your contributions have allowed us to Michael De Bisschop Michelle Mancias and Mr. Denise Vowell provide student scholarships, student travel Theresa Delin and Mr. Mark Daniel Mancias Valerie Wagoner and awards to professional conferences, and Delin James McCann III and Mrs. Mr. Ralph Wagoner Ann McCann engaging speakers such as Noam Chomsky, Craig Donnewald and Mrs. Karen Wall Esq. Mr. John Mearsheimer, Larry Diamond, Rabbi Theresa Donnewald D. Doug McCarthy and Mrs. Ronald Wall Kitty McCarthy Melissa Weintraub, Reverend Sekou, Steven Thomas Eimermann and Mrs. T.Y. Wang and Mrs. Kathleen Eimermann David McCarthy and Mrs. Lynn Christine Lee Salaita, and Christopher Achen. Ryan Elias McCarthy Richard Ensor Thomas McClure and Mrs. Karen McClure Carl Ervin III Bree Medvedev William Farrell and Mrs. Rhonda Farrell Mary Morrissey-Kochanny INTERNSHIPS BY THE NUMBERS and Mr. Michael Kochanny John Foltz and Mrs. Jean Foltz Moskovic & Associates Under the leadership of Professor Nancy Lind (public service internship David Forlow and Mrs. Molly director) and Professor Thomas McClure (legal studies director), the Forlow Patricia Murphy department’s internship programs were quite successful in 2020. There Gabriella Franchini John Newell and Mrs. Alexandra Newell were 279 public service credits earned with over 12,555 hours of service Robert Freitag and Mrs. Traci across the state of Illinois and in Washington, D.C. These students Freitag Christopher Norem and Mrs. Nancy Norem were active in U.S. Senate offices, Illinois legislative offices, and several Gerald Giordano Peter Orlowicz and Mrs. national, state, and local political campaigns. Students served prominent Richard Greenfield Martha Orlowicz roles in Sen. Bill Brady’s office and Rep. Adam Kinzinger’s D.C. office. The Tara Gregus and Mr. Daniel Debra Parker Gregus department has also created a continuously updated webpage for all Simon Patry and Mrs. open internships brought to our attention throughout the world and has Susan Gschwendtner Esq. Maureen Patry provided scholarships to interns accepting placements in Washington, Robert Hammernik James Petit and Mrs. Sally D.C. Meanwhile, there were 76 credit hours for 2020 LGS internships for Monica Hanley Petit a total of 3,420 hours on-the-job.

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