As we step into March, we recognize that these are uncertain times. The Federal Government’s recent actions to halt grant funding and reduce its workforce have raised concerns for many in public service, including our faculty, students, alumni, and partners. While we do not yet know the full extent of these changes to come in the future, one thing remains clear—our commitment to public leadership and democratic governance remains steadfast. The Hatfield School of Government continues to prepare leaders who navigate complexity with integrity, resilience, and a deep commitment to the public good.
I encourage you to stay engaged by attending these events, supporting our students, and connecting with faculty and alumni. Now, more than ever, our work matters. We are honored to be part of a community that remains dedicated to democratic governance and enhancing public service capacity for positive change.
Thank you for all you do. Let’s move forward together.
The Department of Politics and Global Affairs (PGA) at Portland State University is a vibrant community of scholars, educators, and students dedicated to tackling critical political, legal, and global challenges. Our faculty are actively engaged in research and public discourse, specializing in areas such as international security, human rights, law, policy advocacy, U.S. and global politics, political economy, and environmental sustainability.
As part of Oregon’s most diverse public university, PGA is committed to public engagement, fostering inclusive dialogue, and promoting civic responsibility. The department hosts lectures, expert panels, and community discussions on pressing global and domestic issues, from war and peace to social justice and environmental governance.
Programs that allow PGA to make their impact:
Our programs prepare students for careers in government, law, international affairs, advocacy, business, and beyond. We offer:
✅ BA/BS in Political Science – Explore governance, public policy, and global relations.
✅ BA/BS in International & Global Studies – Dive into global governance, international development, and transnational issues.
✅ Master of Science in Political Science – Advanced training in political and policy analysis.
✅ Accelerated BA/BS + MS Program – Fast-track your master's degree.
✅ Law and Legal Studies Minor - Learn about legal systems, constitutional law, and civil rights.
✅ Undergraduate Certificates - Specialized certificates in Women’s Leadership, Middle East Studies and more.
Highlights about the programs:
- Interdisciplinary & Career-Focused Education – Gain expertise in governance, law, policy, diplomacy, and global issues.
- Critical Thinking & Analytical Skills – Develop the ability to analyze real-world challenges and evaluate policies.
- Hands-On Learning – Access internships, study abroad programs, and faculty-led research in key political and policy areas.
- Graduate Degree Preparation – Our expert advisors help students advance to law school and other graduate programs for master's and doctoral degrees.
- Professional & Civic Engagement – Connect with policymakers, legal experts, and global leaders.
Where our PGA graduates work:
🏛 Government agencies (local, state, federal, foreign service)
🌍 International organizations (United Nations, World Bank, NGOs)
⚖️ Law firms & legal advocacy
📢 Nonprofits, political campaigns, journalism, and corporate leadership
Recent graduate success stories:
- A Political Science graduate now serves as a legislative aide in the Oregon State Legislature, drafting policy proposals and advocating for environmental and social justice issues.
- An International & Global Studies alum is working with the United Nations Development Programme, focusing on international human rights and governance initiatives.
- A former Law and Legal Studies minor successfully transitioned into law school at Georgetown University, with a focus on constitutional law and civil rights advocacy.
- A graduate student in Political Science went on to a Ph.D. program at the University of Washington, researching the role of economic inequality in political instability.
Recent PGA Faculty Accomplishments
Engaging Democracy with Sen. Lieber and Rep. Grayber
Sen. Kate Lieber and Rep. Dacia Grayber visited Professor Clucas's Engaging Democracy Capstone at Portland State University, sharing insights with students interning in the state legislature through 2025. Their visit was part of a series of training sessions, featuring guests like the Secretary of the Senate, the House Clerk, and Legislative Policy and Research Office members.
Nu Pi Receives Grant for Women in Leadership Panel
Portland State’s Nu Pi chapter of Pi Sigma Alpha received a $920 grant to support Women in Leadership: A Conversation on Trailblazing Politics, Leadership, and Empowerment. The event, featuring influential Oregon female leaders, will explore leadership, representation, and empowerment.
Professor Yesilada Honored with Distinguished Scholar Award
Professor Birol Yesilada received the Distinguished Scholar Award from the International Studies Association's Political Demography and Geography Section, recognizing his contributions to the field. The award will be presented in March 2025.
$604,000 Grant Awarded for Cybersecurity Resilience Education
Professor Birol Yesilada secured a $604,000 grant from Oregon’s Higher Education Coordinating Commission to enhance cybersecurity education for the state's nine federally recognized tribes through the Hatfield's School's Hatfield Cybersecurity Center and Oregon Cybersecurity Center of Excellence.
Legacy In Action: Alumni Stories
Interview with the Hatfield School's alumna
Caroline Zavitkovski, the Audit Director at Multnomah County, Oregon
After moving to Portland 20 years ago, Caroline started her career in social services, working with homeless shelters and housing programs. Her passion for systemic change led her to pursue a Master’s in Public Administration at the Hatfield School of Government (HSOG), where mentors like Dr. Masami Nishishiba and Dr. Phil Cooper helped shape her path into public auditing.
Now at Multnomah County, she tackles challenges like conflict management and media scrutiny, always prioritizing community impact. One of her most meaningful audits led to critical improvements in behavioral health services. She stresses the importance of strong writing, analytical skills, and an equity-focused approach in public service.
Looking ahead, Caroline sees AI transforming auditing while government policies continue to shape the field.
Her advice? Be patient, take care of yourself, and remember—the work you do in public service truly matters.
Events & Community Engagement
A Night of Inspiration: An Evening with CWL
Last Wednesday on March 5th, over 300 attendees gathered—both in person and online—for An Evening with CWL, an event dedicated to celebrating and advancing women and gender-expansive leadership. Hosted in honor of Women’s History Month and themed Moving Forward Together, the evening served as a powerful reminder of the impact collective action can have.
With the generosity of attendees and supporters, the event successfully raised $71,361 to invest in emerging leaders. The program featured thought-provoking reflections, inspiring speeches from influential figures, and a moving closing reading from Marge Piercy’s The Low Road, emphasizing the importance of agency and solidarity in leadership.
The Center for Women’s Leadership extends its gratitude to the speakers, guests, and sponsors who made the night possible. Their support ensures that CWL’s work continues, empowering leaders and fostering a more equitable future!
Panel Discussion on the Conflict and Peacemaking in the Middle East
On January 30, 2025, the Middle East Studies Center at Portland State University hosted a panel discussion on Conflict and Peacemaking in the Middle East. Experts Dr. Lindsay Benstead, Dr. Harout Akdedian, and Dr. Joshua Eastin explored the region's ongoing political transitions, including the aftermath of President Assad’s overthrow in Syria and the broader implications of recent conflicts in Israel and Palestine.
Drawing from social science research, the panel examined the complex intersections of state-society relations, governance, and peacebuilding efforts. The discussion provided insightful perspectives on the region’s shifting political landscape and the challenges of conflict resolution.
Upcoming Events - Mark your Calendar!
Wednesday March 26, 2025
Friends of Hatfield Speaker Series
Our second annual Friends of Hatfield Speaker Series, is scheduled for March 26, 2025 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm at PSU’s Smith Memorial Student Union Room 327/328. In this event we will welcome Michael Jordan, Portland's City Administrator, to learn how the city has navigated the transition to its new form of government, and what lessons were learned in the process. Moderated by Martha Bennett, Lake Oswego's City Manager, we will look at what leadership challenges and opportunities lie ahead for Mr. Jordan and his leadership team, and what he might have to say to our current students who aspire to become the next generation of public servants.
This is an event open to all members of the community to attend at no cost.
Wednesday April 9, 2025
Special Webinar Lecture by Prof. Theda Skocpol Lecture
We are delighted to invite Professor Theda Skocpol from Harvard University, to deliver a special lecture for the Hatfield School. Prof. Skocpol is an influential American sociologist and political scientist known for her work on state formation, social revolutions, and civic engagement.
A professor at Harvard University, she has made significant contributions to understanding how institutions, movements, and policies shape societies. Prof. Scokpol has explored the transformation of political parties, policy feedback effects, and the rise of grassroots conservative and progressive movements.
In this Webinar lecture, Prof. Skocpol will share her insights and observations on what is happening with democratic governance, and her advice on how to build democratic resilience.
More details of this event will come soon.
Wednesday March 19, 2025
12:00 pm - 1:30 pm
Master's in Public Administration and Public Policy
Virtual Info Session
Focused on our Master of Public Administration and Master of Public Policy programs, join us to learn more about:
- The difference between the MPP and MPA programs
- Career opportunities and alumni success stories
- Program structure, specializations, and application tips
- Funding your graduate education
Hatfield’s Projects & Partnerships
ASPSU Elections application
The Associated Students of Portland State University (ASPSU) are looking for PSU students to run as senators, student fee committee members, and even President/Vice President for the 2025-2026 academic year. All majors of any level of education are encouraged to apply!
If you have any questions, please email Madeline Frisk, ASPSU Adviser at mfrisk@pdx.edu or Jack Damm, ASPSU Elections Committee Chair at election@pdx.edu. These positions receive an ELSA stipend per term which varies based on the position.
This application is due by March 21st at 11:59 pm unless extended by the ASPSU Elections Committee.
PSU students can still run in elections through a write-in campaign on the online ballot (all PSU students receive an individual link to their email during spring term) if they have an interest in doing so if they miss the above deadline.
Dr. Doug Morgan Estate Gift
The Hatfield School of Government is entering a new era of impact and innovation, thanks to a remarkable $1 million estate commitment from emeritus faculty member Dr. Doug Morgan.
For nearly three decades, Dr. Morgan shaped the Hatfield School’s reputation for excellence, mentoring generations of public administration leaders. His gift is not just an investment in education—it’s a commitment to the democratic institutions that serve our communities every day.
The Morgan Ellis Family Endowment, created by Dr. Morgan and his longtime colleague Dr. Walt Ellis, will ensure that students and faculty continue to engage in community-centered governance and problem-solving.
This donation comes at an exciting time for the Hatfield School, as new leadership under Dr. Masami Nishishiba and Dean Jeremy Youde ushers in fresh opportunities for growth. As the school continues to thrive, Dr. Morgan’s legacy will inspire future generations to lead with integrity and purpose.
Click here to support
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Other Faculty Accomplishments
Frankline Muthomi - International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Publication
Professors Frankline Muthomi (Portland State) and Kurt Thurmaier (Northern Illinois) published research on ICMA on citizen participation in Kenyan local budgeting. Their study highlights successful strategies—accessible information, decentralized forums, and community training—that enhance trust and responsive governance.
Click here to read the article
Hal Nelson - Oregon Public Broadcasting (OPB) Story
Dr. Hal Nelson, Associate Professor at Portland State, was featured in an Oregon Public Broadcasting article, warning of the risks posed by federal energy sector job cuts in the Pacific Northwest.
Click here to read the article
Wendy Willis - National Civic League (NCL) Publication
Wendy Willis, Founding Director of Oregon’s Kitchen Table, published Everything Everywhere All at Once: Democratic Practices for Good Governance and Human Flourishing, challenging traditional civic engagement approaches.
Click here to read the article