JMU Political Science: Engaged in Public Service

The Political Science Department seeks to improve the quality of public policy and civic life in the United States and abroad by teaching students to think analytically and critically, conducting meaningful research, and collaborating with people in and beyond our JMU and local communities. We are committed to an inclusive learning and working environment that celebrates diversity. We affirm the lives and experiences of historically excluded people and aim to cultivate a welcoming and participatory departmental culture where all can flourish.

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Alumni Stories

Our alumni reflect on the value of their experiences in our department as they prepared for their careers in public service:

Kirk Cox, former Speaker of the Virginia House of Delegates
Class of 1979, political science major

Jamie Jones Miller, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense
Class of 1999, international affairs major

Levar Stoney, Mayor of Richmond, Virginia
Class of 2004, public administration & political science double major

News

Apr 23 Announcing the 2024 Public Service Awards honorees
Public Service Awards at James Madison University has announced the 2024 honorees, recognizing four Valley residents for their exemplary public service work.
Mar 8 Performing her civic duty
Whitney Rice ('09) used her experience in JMU's Speech Club to forge an acting career in Hollywood.
Mar 1 Students tackle real-world U.S. security issues abroad
Hacking for Diplomacy participants pitch their ideas to officials at the Department of State.
Jan 24

JMU to host international conference on accountability in Washington, D.C.
On Feb. 7–9, JMU’s Washington Center will play host to the Accountability in African Public Policy and Administration conference.
Dec 18 Military, dependents find support through JMU VALOR
Dukes cheerleader, ROTC cadet and Marine veteran Jonah Posada will have a unique perspective on Dec. 23 as he cheers on JMU in its first bowl game: the Armed Forces Bowl in Fort Worth, Texas.
Nov 30 The Picture of a Journey to Florence
New EUPS professor at JMU Florence campus, Christine Bakker, PhD, shares her professional journey, her experience working for the European Commission, and how she came to live in Florence, Italy full-time.
Nov 30 A Window into the Consulting World
Married JMU alumni, Mr. Richard Shapiro and Mrs. Alexis Shapiro stop by Florence, Italy to lead a consulting workshop and share their professional advice with the EUPS cohort.
Nov 30 JMU Duke Puts Down Roots in Italy
JMU Semester in Florence alumnus, Mr. Andrew Spannaus, speaks with students about his experience living in Milan and building a successful international career.
Nov 30 Il Conventino
Across the Ponte Vecchio, this historical social hub bridges cultures and communities.
Nov 30 A Changing Environment
The EUPS program ensures students are ready to enter the rapidly changing job market with practical experience.

Department of Political Science

Miller Hall
MSC 7705
91 East Grace Street
Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807

Email Us
(540) 568-6149
Fax: (540) 568-8021