The Pundit—Political Science Newsletter

Fall 2016 Muhlenberg Students Attend National Party Conventions

Republican National Convention Democratic National Convention

Arriving on the Baldwin Wallace University campus in My time at the Democratic Convention was the best Berea, Ohio after an 8-hour drive, I couldn’t wait to experience I had all summer. Though some aspects settle into my dorm and get ready to experience of the program itself could have been done better, I everything that the 2016 Republican National Con- felt like the experience as a whole, particularly the vention in Cleveland had to offer. The program be- time I spent volunteering in the Wells Fargo Center, gan with the academic portion in the first week, was incredibly exciting and fulfilling. I am very grate- which established the context of the second week’s ful to Muhlenberg, the Political Science Department, convention. The days began bright and early with and the administration for selecting me for this trip lectures beginning at 8:30 that introduced the topics and for affording me the opportunity to go to such a of the day, followed by various guest speakers, all of monumental event. whom added a unique perspective to the RNC. Among the speakers were the Cleveland police chief, The first week of the program was held at Temple the head of the Cleve- University, where we were staying for the land Host Committee, two weeks of the Convention. The first a member of the Se- day of the program was that Sunday, and cret Service, the I used it to explore some of the city with chairman of the Cuya- some of the other people who had ar- hoga County Republi- rived early and settled in already before can Party, and various we reconvened that night to have an political scientists. introductory session for the program. Sometime in the early afternoon, we would The first week of the program consisted break for lunch be- of different speakers giving talks from fore returning to meet 8:30 AM to noon on various topics relat- in small groups to ing to conventions, the election, and the discuss readings and candidates. The first day featured Gov- the speakers of the erner Ed Rendell and Reverend Leah day. Daughtry (the woman in charge of orga- Photo by Tom Littrel nizing the convention) as well as several other The week of the convention itself, we were all as- speakers. The two of them spoke primarily on the signed to fieldwork positions in order to gain first- election and the issues facing the country as well as hand experience and knowledge of the components talking about how they were excited for this conven- Inside this issue: that go into a successful convention. While some tion because of how it was organized and because it students were paired with media outlets or state was in Philadelphia. The speeches were very enter- National Party 1 delegations, I was assigned to the Committee on taining, but at the end of the day’s talks I did feel a Conventions Arrangements, which dealt with the nitty-gritty organ- bit concerned about the program. I had expected izational details of the convention. The first day was much of the academic portion to be focused on in- forming us about the issues of the election and the Pi Sigma Alpha 2 less than satisfying for many of us in this placement as we found ourselves far from the Quicken Loans role that conventions play in our political process, Arena or “Q” where the convention was taking place but the first day felt like a poorly disguised Hillary and performing the extremely necessary grunt work Clinton rally. Each speaker praised Hillary Clinton all Student News & 3 that is so often overlooked when considering mas- around and downplayed the criticisms that had been Awards sive events such as conventions. After a day spent circling around her campaign at the time. I under- checking-in other volunteers, I was transferred to a stood that this was a very exciting thing for these Campus Happenings 4 much more interesting location, the hotel where speakers to talk about and that it was their job to Donald Trump’s family, advisors, and most important talk up the nominee, but given my expectations for guests were staying. Working 10-14 hour shifts, my the program being fairly impartial and academic I Faculty Highlights 5, 6 job was mainly to stay in the hotel lobby and distrib- was slightly concerned. ute the correct credentials to these VIP guests every day. Apart from the opportunity to see so many indi- The remainder of the week speakers talked about Institute of Public 7 viduals whose faces I knew solely from TV (I watched campaign finance, trade policy, and political engage- Opinion all of Trump’s adult children and Newt Gingrich walk ment. Two speakers, Seth Williams, the DA of Phila- by several times, had conversations with Eric Trump delphia and Matt O’Donnell, a news anchor, both focused on political involvement especially at our Alumni News 8, 9 and Omarosa, and even shared an elevator with Dr. Ben Carson), the best part of this field placement age. The final speaker gave a history of women who was that at the end of my shift, there was a chance have run for president and how they have paved the Student Research 10 that I would be given a leftover credential and actu- way for Hillary to run today and also spoke on how ally be able to enter the convention (I was able to get many people, especially from the younger genera- A Word from the 12 in three of the four nights). tions, are ready for a female president. Chair Cont. on page 11 Cont. on page 11 Page 2 Pi Sigma Alpha Welcomes New Members

Congratulations to the following students who have been inducted into the Eta Upsilon Chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society.

Class of 2016:

Matthew Lubitz Sydney Saltzman Rachel Walker

Class of 2017:

Molly Albano Nicole Baltzer Christopher Baumgartel Andrew Berdahl Hannah Bobker Susanne Boss Daniel Cohen Kaitlin Errickson Hailey Goldberg Megan Lafayette Arissa Lahr Kate Rael Jake Solari Rachel Wolf Members of Pi Sigma Alpha with guest speaker Dr. Kent Rissmiller ‘76 and Dr. Slane.

Page 3

Recent Alumni News ….

Danielle Beiser ‘16 is pursuing a Masters in International Rela- tions at IAU College in Aix-en-Provence, France.

Ryan Bohrod ‘16 is working for the company Nigel Frank Interna- tional.

Chayoot Chengsupanimit ‘16 is working for Student Awards 2016 Price-waterhouseCoopers in New York, NY. He is also continuing his wrestling career in hopes of representing Thailand Molly Albano ’17, Nicole Baltzer ’17, and in international competitions. Masheed Mahjor ’17 each received the Presi- dent’s Award for Outstanding Academic Achieve- Matt Dacher ‘16 is a First Year City Year Corp Member working ment and Promise for Postgraduate Work by a with low income children in New Orleans, LA. Junior.

Gabriela DeFrutos ‘16 is currently a Political Affairs intern at the Christian Balodis ’17 received the Harry A. Benfer United Nations Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Director- Memorial Scholarship Award, as well as the Presi- ate doing research on rehabilitation, reintegration and prosecu- dent’s Award. tion measures for foreign terrorist fighters who return to their countries of origin. Andrew Berdahl ’17 received a student summer research grant. Jashon Desenna ‘16 is working with Teach for America and is teaching 8th grade students in Springfield, MA. Erin Bohmiller ’16 received the James W. and Jose Flores ‘16 is currently working for Center for Life as part of Barbara H. Herrick Award, as well as the Phi the Transition to Adulthood program, working with 11th and 12th Sigma Iota Award in French. Erin was also grade students in New York, NY. inducted into Phi Beta Kappa.

Jacob Hill ‘16 is attending Drexel Law School in Susanne Boss ’17 received a student summer Philadelphia, PA research grant.

Matthew Lubitz ‘16 is pursuing a Masters in political science at Chayoot Chengsupanimit ’16 received the Kurt Lehigh University. M. Thiede Prize. Jeffrey Mintz ‘16 is teaching English at Western Tour World School, and learning Chinese at Sichuan University. Gabriela De Frutos ’16 received the Russell B. Everett Romance Language Award. Todd Mordos ‘16 is attending Widener Law Commonwealth in Harrisburg, PA. Kaitlin Errickson ’17 was awarded the Dr. John J. Reed Scholarship. Tara Pachter ‘16 is attending Stetson Law School in Gulfport, FL.

Sydney Saltzman ‘16 is working as a medical scribe through Mahsheed Mahjor ’17 received the Carol ScribeAmerica and applying to medical schools. Emhardt Kuntzleman Memorial Award.

Alex Solomon ‘16 is currently working as a sports reporter for the Sydney Saltzman ’16 received the Dr. Charles S. Journal News (which is affiliated with USA Today). Bednar Award in Political Science.

Isaac E. Shimsky-Agosto ’16 received the Citizen Exchange Council Award in Russian Studies. Campus and Student Happenings Page 4

Dr. Herrick with students Megan Lafayette ‘17, Mahsheed Mahjor ‘17, and Yuxin Lei ‘17 at the United Nations.

Dr. Hashim and Dr. Mello attend the International Political Science Association conference in Poznan, Poland in August, 2016.

Students at BergVotes event with guest Nancy Giles. Emma Lewis ‘19, Chris- tian Balodis ‘17, Jake Solari ‘17, Nancy Giles, Nicole Baltzer ‘17, Hamilton Wilde ‘17, Jessica Pearse ‘18, and Joelle Jacoski ‘18. Faculty Highlights Page 5

Dr. Chris Borick discuss career and educational goals, followed by focused at- Dr. Chris Borick has been engaged in a number of projects tention on college and financial aid/scholarship applications. throughout the past year. With 2016 being a Presidential elec- Our students share their experiences and provide encourage- tion year and Pennsylvania in the nation spotlight as a “swing ment and guidance. College students at Muhlenberg also help state” Dr . Borick and the staff of the Institute of Public Opinion to build program capacity by assisting Professor Deegan with have been very busy with polling in the Keystone State. The program evaluation, research, and other activities. Institute was honored for its polling accuracy by Nate Silver of the web publication fivethirtyeight with a grade of “A” placing the MCIPO among a select group of research organizations Dr. Jack Gambino throughout the country. This fall promises to be an even busier Dr. Jack Gambino presented a paper, co-authored by Dr. Moh- time for Borick and the Institute as national and international sin Hashim, on teaching global citizenship and sustainability at attention turns to the race in Pennsylvania. the Twelfth International Conference on Environmental, Cul- tural, Economic, and Social Sustainability held at Portland State Dr. Borick also continues to co-direct the National Surveys on University in Portland in January 2016. During the spring se- Energy and the Environment (NSEE) which has just marked it’s 9th year of operation. The joint venture between Muhlenberg mester of 2016, he and Dr. Hashim conducted a faculty semi- College and the University of Michigan has provided detailed nar called Bangladesh: Contested Identities. The seminar, information about American views on climate change which included 14 faculty members from a variety of disci- since2008 with last year’s findings indicating fewer Americans plines, culminated with a 2 week study trip to Bangladesh and than any time in the survey’s history expressing skepticism India. The seminar and study trip were sponsored by a Mellon about the existence of global warming, with experiences with grant aimed at promoting Muhlenberg College’s Civic and weather events such as drought and heat waves increasingly Global Mission. Dr. Gambino also served as co-chair of the having an effect on attitudes and beliefs about climate change. Steering Committee that led to College’s successful reaccredi- The NSEE has also partnered with the Brookings Institution on tation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. regular reports and releases on climate change opinion and He is currently teaching a first year seminar on George Orwell policy with Borick authoring both reports and blogs for the pres- tigious Washington D.C. think tank. and courses on American political thought and just war theory. Dr. Gambino will be offering a new course on the Italian Ameri- During the last year Dr. Borick finished his tenure as President can experience that will be listed among the offerings for the of the Pennsylvania Political Science Association. He is con- College’s new Italian Studies minor. tinuing his work with the association as guest editor of the PPSA’s journal Commonwealth upcoming special edition on energy and environmental policy in Pennsylvania. The special volume will be published early in 2017. Dr. Mohsin Hashim Finally Dr. Borick and his co-authors have just completed the Dr. Hashim and Dr. Gambino led a faculty development seminar Ninth Edition of their text Introducing Public Administration. that focused on contestations over Bengali/Bangladeshi na- The book which had been published since its inception by Long- man/Pearson is now under the Taylor and Francis label. The tional identity and state formation processes. The seminar en- book makes a lovely Christmas or Chanukah gift for children tailed a two-week summer trip to Bangladesh and West Bengal, everywhere! India. Several Muhlenberg faculty across academic disciplines participated in the seminar and trip. Dr. Hashim and Dr. Mello presented their co-authored paper titled “Religion, Secularism, Dr. Michele Deegan and the Stability of Semi-Democratic Regimes in Bangladesh During the last year, Professor Deegan continued to research and Turkey” at the 24th World Congress of the International the Affordable Care Act with Professor Mathews-Schultz. A Political Science Association, which was held in Poznan, Po- forthcoming article, “The Limits of Medicaid Reform in Pennsyl- land. He presented his paper “Contested Nationalisms as a vania Thinking Regionally about Access to Insurance and Health Care under the Affordable Care Act,” will be published in Source of Democratic Erosion: The Case of Bangladesh” at the the journal, Commonwealth, this November. They are also 2016 Annual Meeting of the American Political Science Asso- working with Dr. Sabrina Terizzi (Moravian College) on an analy- ciation in Philadelphia, PA. Dr. Hashim also presented his paper sis of how states’ political environments mitigate implementa- titled “Elite Competition as a Source of Illiberal Democracy in tion of this law. She also continues to serve on the Promise Bangladesh” at the Annual Conference of the Northeast Politi- Neighborhood of the Lehigh Valley Measurement and Evalua- cal Science Association in Boston, MA. Dr. Hashim was invited tion Committee and the Lehigh Valley Research Consortium to serve as referee for the journal Third World Quarterly. He Executive Committee. She is presenting several papers on the continues to serve on the National Faculty Development Com- Allentown Promise Neighborhood this fall and spring. mittee of the AP Comparative Politics exam, and as Bangladesh

Country Manager for the international research project Varieties Dr. Deegan also received a 2016 LVAIC Innovation Grant, with Drs. Tahereh Hojjat (DeSales University) and Kerrie Baker of Democracy (V-Dem). Dr. Hashim is on sabbatical during Fall (Cedar Crest College), to create a college admission mentoring 2016. program (CAMP) for juniors and seniors at William Allen High School. The goal of this program is to match college students with high school students who might need help navigating the college admissions process. During their meetings the partners

Faculty Highlights, continued Page 6

Dr. Chris Herrick Dr. Brian Mello During late May, Dr. Herrick sponsored a During the 2015-16 academic year Brian Mello number of Muhlenberg political science and in- conducted research on the violence and ideology ternational studies students in an internship at of the Islamic State. Both at the Northeastern the United Nations Permanent Forum on Indige- Political Science Association and at a Law and nous Issues (see picture). During the summer, Dr. Politics faculty seminar at Columbia University, Herrick oversaw two research projects. The pro- he presented a paper based on this research. He ject undertaken by Andrew Berdahl involved pol- also presented a revised version of a joint re- icy recommendations for addressing the issue of search project on Islamic politics in Turkey and conflicting claims to the South China Sea. The Bangladesh with Dr. Hashim at the Congress of project undertaken by Susanne Boss addressed the International Association of Political Science possible ways to involve the international com- in Poznan, Poland. During the summer of 2016 munity in the early identification and potential Dr. Mello received a grant from the Faculty Cen- prevention of the destruction of antiquities and ter for Teaching at Muhlenberg College to con- art in the course of international conflict. Dr. Her- duct research on how to incorporate a video rick’s co-authored book, China’s Peaceful Rise: game component into a course. This fall, Dr. Perceptions, policy and misperceptions pub- Mello’s students will be reading about militarism lished by Manchester University Press (UK) will in video games and playing the game This War of be available in early October. Elected to the Mine as part of his Intro to Conflict and Peace Board of ASIANetwork, a consortium of over 160 Studies Course. Throughout the current aca- US liberal arts colleges teaching courses in Asian demic year, Dr. Mello, along with Dr. Gambino, Studies in 2015, Dr. Herrick was chosen as Vice and Dr. Kushner (business), serves as the pro- Chair of the Board in 2016. In that capacity, he gram director for the Center for Ethics program will be overseeing the 2017 annual conference on War and Peacebuilding. and act as a liaison to various foundations fund- ing educational opportunities associated with Dr. Alton Slane East and South Asia. Dr. Alton Slane presented a paper titled, “Fourth Amendment Issues Involving Traffic Stops and Police Errors in Interpreting the Law” presented Dr. Lanethea Mathews-Schultz at the Annual Conference of the Academy of With colleague Michele Deegan, Lanethea Criminal Justice in Denver, CO on March 31, Mathews-Schultz co-authored "The Limits of 2016. He presented another paper titled “Fourth Medicaid Reform in in Pennsylvania: Thinking Amendment issues and the Requirement of a Regionally About Access to Insurance and Health Care Under the Affordable Care Act," which is Search Warrant to Search Hotel Register,” at the forthcoming in December 2016 in Common- 87th Annual Conference of the Southern Political wealth: A Journal of Pennsylvania Politics and Science Association in San Juan, Puerto Rico on Policy. She was recently elected as Second Vice- January 7, 2016, and presented “New Fourth President for the Northeast Political Science Amendment Issues When Police Use Narcotics- Association and will service as Program Chair for Detection Dogs During a Lawful Traffic Stop” at the Pennsylvania Political Science Association in the Annual Northeastern Political Science April 2016. She's currently finishing up a project Association Meeting in Philadelphia, PA on that examines the effects of international politics November 14, 2015. on interest group formation in the mid-20th Dr. Slane also continues to serve the College as century in the United States. Dr. Mathews-Schultz Faculty Parliamentarian. continues to experiment with new online teaching and learning tools, occasionally offering a section of her Introduction to American National Govern- ment course as a fully online course, and using a course blog in her first year seminar to think about politics (check it out at https:// breadandcircus2016.blogspot.com/). Page 7

Institute of Public Opinion 2015—2016

During the 2015-2016 academic year the Muhlen- ings of the study indicate that over half of Pennsyl- berg College Institute of Public Opinion celebrated vanians know someone that has suffered from its 15th year of operation. Since it’s opening in the addiction to opioids such as heroin and that in their fall of 2001 the MCIPO has been engaged in exten- communities this issue has become an increasing sive research on the local, state and national level concern. This year’s public health research also and during the last year the Institute expanded shows mixed views on public policies to deal with upon its past efforts with numerous initiatives. increasing obesity rates in the state, with Pennsyl- With Pennsylvania playing a prominent role in the vanians split on a tax on junk food as a means to presidential primary season the MCIPO was very reduce consumption of unhealthy food options. active in polling Keystone State voters on their pref- erences. In particular the MCIPO examined the The MCIPO also continues its partnership with the Republican primary in Pennsylvania as the state University of Michigan in producing the National proved to be important in cementing Donald Surveys on Energy and the Environment (NSEE), Trump’s nomination. With attention turning to the The NSEE just completed its 8th year of operation general election the Institute has ramped up its with the research indicating a record low number of efforts this fall as Pennsylvania has emerged once Americans remain skeptical of the evidence of again as a key swing state. Early polls have global warming, with only 15% of Americans indicat- showed Hillary Clinton maintaining lead in the state ing that they do not believe there is solid evidence throughout September with Trump narrowing her of global warming as of the spring of 2016. The lead as the race headed into its final 6 weeks. The NSEE research also continues to show that Ameri- MCIPO will conduct numerous polls in the final can experiences with weather such as the record weeks before the November 8th election and its heat of 2016 is shaping public perceptions of cli- impressive record of accuracy will be once again mate change and contributing to broader accep- tested by a turbulent election season. Its past elec- tance of the phenomenon. tion research has earned the Institute national As always the work of the Institute relies upon the recognition for the accuracy of its findings, includ- tremendous efforts of the MCIPO staff of dozens of ing a recent “A” grade from Nate Silver and his students. In addition to the many interviewers that fivethirtyeight website. work at the Institute, the MCIPO management team While election years always mean the MCIPO will be is responsible for all aspects of operation including engaged in political polling, public policy research computer programming, lab supervision, payroll was a very prominent feature of the Institute’s work management, staff training and data analysis. This over the last year. In particular the MCIPO has con- year’s management team includes co-directors tinued to invest in public health research in con- Angela Grassi and Emma Bownes, along with su- junction with the College’s Public Health Program. pervisors Rachel Wolf, Victoria Marsala and Prianka For each of the last four years the MCIPO has con- Hashim. Finally Maureen Bayraktar continues to ducted a major statewide public health survey dur- serve as the MCIPO administrative assistant and ing the spring semester in which Pennsylvanians webmaster, regularly producing the Institute’s are asked about their attitudes, knowledge and graphics and web content. Check out her work behaviors related to public health matters. The along with the Institute’s reports on our website at 2016 version of this project focused on a number Muhlenberg.edu/main/aboutus/polling/. of key health issues facing the state, with a particular focus on the opioid crisis that has affected many parts of the Commonwealth and nation. The find- Alumni News Page 8 Erin Gistaro, Class of 2016 Jake Glass, Class of 2013 I just passed my three month mark as the communications associate for the Feminist Sitting in a White House Majority Foundation in Arlington, Virginia. I’m meeting last year, I remem- doing everything from running our social me- ber a senior advisor to the dia accounts and feminist newswire to han- President remarking that he dling press releases and inquiries to crafting relied on learning from his action emails and fundraising initiatives. I staff as much as they relied could not be happier that I found a job on learning from him. In where I can continue to pursue the passions I 2011, Muhlenberg Professor developed at Muhlenberg. Mohsin Hashim began the first day of class with the

same idea – “We’re all stu- I am very grateful for all the experience I dents of this material,” he gained in college, writing about and discuss- said. To me, this exemplifies how my learning in ing issues surrounding history, public policy the Muhlenberg Political Science Department and progressing the rights of marginalized and International Studies Program – about po- individuals. I’m lucky enough to share my litical problem solving and collaborative learn- office with fellow Berg alumna Beth Rader ing – ring true even at the highest levels of gov- who has been an invaluable guide and sup- ernment. porter as I transition from the Muhlenbubble into the adult world. Currently, I’m a Truman Scholar and Master in Public Policy Candidate at Harvard University. I cannot thank the political science faculty My studies focus on environmental policy and enough for the encouragement, advice and the intersection of the public and private sec- opportunities they gave me throughout my tors. Prior to Harvard, I worked for the U.S. Sec- years at Muhlenberg. Whether it was helping retary of Transportation and at the Woodrow me become and grow as a writing tutor or Wilson International Center for Scholars. Next leading me as I applied for the Truman Schol- year, I will either rejoin the Federal government arship, the mentorship of my professors was or explore the field of management consulting.

always comforting, inspiring and exceptional. The last several years have been a blur of chal- lenging jobs, successful (and unsuccessful) scholarship applications, and new professional relationships with incredible people. These opportunities are a direct result of my time learning from the Muhlenberg Political Science De- partment and International Studies Program. The Department’s faculty, in particular, has a special knack for accelerating students’ ca- reers. Whether spending hours helping me write an application for the Truman Scholar- ship, guiding me (literally) through the political history of Bangladesh, or introducing me to internship opportunities in Washington, DC, the commitment of the Department’s professors to student success is second to none. Engaging with these professors, even after graduation

from Muhlenberg, has made all the difference

as I pursue a career in public policy.

Alumni News Page 9 Gabe Hurtado, Class of 2013 Deniz Uzel, Class of 2011 After Muhlenberg, I attended Lehigh University as part of the Community Fellows and Political I am currently an attorney at Science Masters programs. Through my fellow- the law firm of Margolis Edel- ship, I worked for the West End Alliance, a commu- stein, at its Philadelphia of- nity development organization in Allentown’s West fice. I am admitted to prac- End Theatre District. In this role, I helped to pro- tice law in both Pennsylvania mote business development, build organizational and New Jersey. I specialize capacity and facilitate neighborhood outreach. in Labor and Employment While at Lehigh, I also expanded work on a thesis law, which involves represen- project I completed at Muhlenberg, exploring tation of employers faced minor league baseball stadiums as venues for with claims of hostile work civic engagement. environment, wrongful dis- charge, defamation, slander, In 2014, I started work at the Lehigh Valley Plan- harassment and discrimination in the areas of ning Commission as an intern, and later, Commu- gender, sexual orientation, race, national origin, nity Planner. As a planner, I reviewed land devel- religion, disability, and age. I counsel employers opment projects, supervised the collection of on workplace matters including employment poli- regional transportation infrastructure performance cies and handbooks, employment contracts, medi- data and managed multiple public outreach cal and religious accommodations, and equal op- efforts. portunity policies to afford compliance with state and federal laws. In August 2016, my Muhlenberg journey brought

me full circle, as I am now employed as the From my very first college applications, I knew that College’s Enrollment Data Manager & Analyst. In law school and becoming a lawyer was my end this role, I serve as a primary departmental data goal. From my very first interactions with the Politi- expert, responsible for the campus integration and cal Science Department, I was assured that any analysis of admission and financial aid data. major could prepare me for this but when pre- My experience as a Muhlenberg Political Science sented with the classes offered by this Depart- major directly impacted and accelerated this ment, I was sold that it was the right track for me. career path. The positions I have held to date require critical thinking, prioritization and collabo- The Political Science Department's foundational ration as I define problems, collect data and classes gave me a basis as to how our govern- advise stakeholders. The Muhlenberg Political ment works, with interesting spins on concepts I'm Science department’s combination of high-level faced with now including gender in the workplace, quantitative and qualitative coursework set the religion in the workplace, and politics in the work- foundation for these skills. A real commitment to place. I took classes like constitutional law, media this multi-faceted approach is unique. I will always law, and environmental law before I even stepped be grateful to have studied in such a collaborative foot in law school. I was in the minority of my peers in law school who had had such early expo- and close-knit environment. sure. The classes offered at Muhlenberg and by the Political Science department further solidified for me that I was on the right path.

Beyond the classes offered by the Department, the professors in this particular Department make it one of the best at Muhlenberg. The professors in this Department are fantastic people and mentors and make a tremendous impact on the students they interact with. Their doors were always open and they were always willing to explore new ways to grow and expand their Department. When sur- rounded by those who truly love what they do, it's hard to not fall in love with it yourself.

I couldn't have asked for a better college experience which led me to my dream job.

Student Research Presentations Page 10

Nicole Baltzer ’17, Megan Lafayette ’17, Nicole Baltzer ’17 presented “Gender & Elec- Jake Solari ’17, and Trevor Waldron ’17 pre- tions: Elite Media Coverage of Hillary Clin- sented a paper at the Campus Sustainability ton’s Early 2016 Presidential Campaign” at Conference at Lehigh University in February, the 21st Annual Undergraduate Women’s 2016 entitled, “Environmental Opinions at and Gender Studies Conference on April 9, Muhlenberg College”. 2016 at DeSales University. Nicole will pre- sent further analysis at the Northeast Politi- cal Science Association Conference this fall. The following students presented papers at the 77th Annual Meeting of the Pennsylvania Alexa Potter ’16 presented “Domestic Vio- Political Science Association at Shippens- lence in Morocco: A Collection of Narratives” burg University, April, 2016: at the 21st Annual Undergraduate Women’s and Gender Studies Conference on April 9, Daniel Cojocaru ’17 presented a paper enti- 2016 at DeSales University. tled “European Union – Russian Relations, and the Places of Future Impact.”

Maggie Emge ’18 presented a paper entitled “Islamic Radicalization in Chechnya.”

Andrew Loewy ’17 presented a paper entitled “Russia’s Putin: Energy Resources for Political and Economic Gain has its Limita- tions.”

The following students presented papers at the 13th Annual Social Research Social Jus- tice Conference at Muhlenberg College on April 8, 2016:

Matthew Dacher ’16 presented a paper entitled “The Deception of Development: How NGOs Undermine State Capacity and Growth.”

Jeff Funk ’16 presented his paper entitled “Managing Fat Stigma in Everyday Life.”

Asa Saidman ’18 presented a paper entitled “The Causes, Consequences and Actions of Discrimination in Russia.”

Isaac Shimsky-Agosto ’16 presented “The Integration of Russian Minority Populations in the Baltic States.”

Cover Story, cont. Hamilton Wilde, cont. Jonathan Walker, cont. Page 11 Throughout the convention week, I virtually didn’t Monday evening I began my first shift volunteering as sleep between early mornings, long hours of field- a member of the “Access Control Team” checking work, and the huge assortment of social parties. The credentials at different seating sections during the week functioned as a means of connecting party convention. I was standing in the “vomitoriums” or members, media, and an array of relevant personali- hallways that lead to seating areas and my job was to ties through events held across the city. I was espe- check that people had the right credentials before cially fortunate for the opportunity to attend an event letting them into the area. I was primarily up on the at the New Jersey state delegation’s hotel, where I mezzanine level on the second deck but the day that was introduced to important political players from all Obama and Biden spoke I was down on the ground across my home state. The highlight of the evening floor. was the appearance of Gov. Chris Christie, who addressed the delegates about the role NJ could play in Because of my fieldwork placement, I had a great the general election. He would later speak to the NJ position from which to view the whole convention delegates again on the morning of the final day about proceedings. I could see most of the speeches, espe- the courage that is necessary to lead and the coward- cially the higher profile speakers as it was very easy ice exhibited by "people who hide in the back of the for me to drift over to a position where I could view room with laptops," criticizing and second-guessing the stage. One of the most interesting things for me the decision makers. was to see the behind the scenes things that went on. For example, there were hundreds of volunteers The most shocking part of the RNC was how com- whose job it was to hand out signs with various mes- pletely inaccurate the media’s portrayal of it was as it sages on them. These volunteers would wait in the grossly overstated the potential "threats" in an at- alcoves until their coordinators gave them a signal to tempt to sensationalize the hostility against the con- start handing out signs so that everyone in the sta- vention. Although there were some minor episodes in dium would have the same sign to wave. The most a designated parade route surrounding the "Q," they blatant example of this was during Bill Clinton’s were almost unnoticeable to the average attendee. speech when he used the phrase “Change Maker.” Virtually all attendees were left with the impression Just before he dropped this phrase, volunteers that Cleveland was a clean, safe and friendly city. handed out signs to everyone that read “Change Security was thorough and competent and included Maker.” Hillary Clinton had not used this phrase in police officers from across the nation, who had trav- any of her campaign rhetoric up to this point, so the eled to Cleveland to serve, protect and ensure the fact that they made signs for everyone to wave fea- safety of those attending the convention. turing that phrase illustrates how the entire convention is planned and seeks to construct one coherent The final night of the RNC was naturally the most narrative. anticipated, and it certainly did not disappoint. I had personally been looking forward to hearing Ivanka Other significant things that I noticed during the con- Trump speak, and she followed in the footsteps of vention were just how many VIPs there were every- her brothers, Eric and Donald, Jr. in making an articu- where. Every day that I was there I saw several politi- late, well-reasoned and engaging presentation to the cians, high-profile media people and others. Besides audience before introducing her father, who ac- seeing multiple Congressmen and Congresswomen, I cepted the nomination of the party and addressed saw former Attorney General Eric Holder, Chuck crowd. His speech was riveting, to say the least, high- Todd, and the President of the Dominican Republic lighting the failures of the current administration and and many foreign ambassadors to the United States. outlining his plans for changing the shape of our na- The ambassadors I saw were there as guests of the tion by revising trade agreements, ending pointless State Department, and it made me realize just how wars, rebuilding the nation’s infrastructure, creating significant the national conventions are to the inter- new job opportunities, increasing employment, and national community, not just the United States. protecting our citizens. He specifically assured members of the LGBTQ Community that they, and all Outside of the conventions there were many events Americans, would be protected from violent radicals going on in the city including parties and concerts, who seek to inflict harm on American citizens. The many of which were hosted by the various state dele- reaction of the crowd was overwhelmingly favorable gations. There were Donkeys with different state’s as they chanted "Trump, Trump, Trump.” names on them throughout the city that people could hunt for as a scavenger hunt. There were also many As his speech ended, "All Right Now" by Free burst protests going on. Most of them were centered out- through the sound system while balloons and confetti side of the convention hall but some were also flooded the room. Everyone in the room was engulfed around City Hall. There were also protesters inside of in the overwhelming feeling of positive energy and the Wells Fargo Center as well, but in very isolated hope for America. A family member who was also in instances. The Washington state delegation began attendance as a New Jersey delegate described it as chanting for Bernie at several points but then got "a hybrid blending of a National Convention, a Super drowned out by Hillary chants. Bowl party and a Pink Floyd concert."

Cont. from previous page

I learned many things from the convention, but perhaps the most interesting thing that I learned was how the parties go about constructing a narrative to bring outsid- ers into the party, to shore up their own base, and to construct one central narrative. I witnessed this throughout the convention from the various speakers that were there to the passing out of signs and also the compari- son of how the media covered the convention to how it was inside the arena. There are many stories that I could tell, but that will take another 1200 words or so, so I will leave it here.

Picture from the Party Conventions Panel event. Hamilton Wilde ‘17 and Jonathan Walker ‘18 attended the National party conventions in July 2016.

A Final Word from the Chair,

It’s been a memorable and busy year for our department! The 2016 presidential election is unlike any other. As a department, we have spent countless hours talking about the election with our students as we try to make sense of this historic moment. Neither candidate seems very popular, yet one of them will be sworn in as President of the United States. To engage the campus community in these conversations, this fall we are hosting our 6th non- partisan Election Series entitled Politics as Unusual. This series has brought to campus national and international experts, including former members of Congress, to discuss this election in light of the role of political parties and public opinion and in consideration of the outcome’s potential impacts on domestic and foreign policy. We were also excited to be able to sponsor an essay contest for students interested in attending a national party convention organization through The Washington Center in D.C. President John Williams and Provost John Ramsay generously supported this opportunity, Jonathan Walker, who attended the Democratic National Convention, is a junior political science major. Hamilton Wilde, who attended the Republican National Convention is a senior history major and political science minor. The students attended a two-week seminar that included classes about political parties and elections as well as invited lectures in each convention city. In the second week students volunteered at each convention. Many more political science majors are working for state and local races in the Allentown area and even more are engaged in voter registration efforts on campus.

Finally, I will be stepping down as chair at the end of this academic year. I have enjoyed my time as chair and I look forward to keeping in touch with our current and future alums in the future. Thanks to all of our alumni who stopped by the office during Homecoming. It was great to see everyone and hear from our impressive alumni.

Michele Moser Deegan Department Chair and Associate Professor