News

Presented by the Institute for Democratic Empowerment and Pluralism, the Virginia Government Simulation offers a unique opportunity for students to live the life of a lawmaker. (Dean Hoffmeyer, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Virginia Government Simulation lets students pick up the bills

Nov. 24, 2025

In its second year, the mock legislative session led by VCU welcomed more than 100 participants from Virginia colleges.

Students including Blake Jocuns traveled around Central Virginia to conduct interviews at polling locations throughout the day. (Contributed photo)

Journalism and political science students had Election Day covered

Nov. 20, 2025

Collaboration between the Robertson School and the Department of Political Science offered real-world training at the polls.

Nardos Iyob (B.A. ’20) raises awareness for a major adolescent development study

Nov. 10, 2025

Iyob’s survey of the humanities as a Department of Political Science and Department of African American Studies double major prepared her to work in research

As one of two states this year with a gubernatorial election, Virginia is at the forefront of the national political conversation. (Getty Images)

VCU experts available to discuss Virginia election topics

Oct. 1, 2025

Political science educators Alex Keena and Jatia Wrighten can offer analysis and perspective on voting, voter turnout, campaign finance and more.

Participants in the “Civil Discourse and Collaboration Initiative” will be encouraged to contribute to the greater good in meaningful and lasting ways.(File photo)

David and Michelle Baldacci launch the ‘Civil Discourse and Collaboration Initiative’ with VCU and the Library of Virginia

Sept. 25, 2025

Their $13M joint contribution will promote constructive dialogue in a polarized world through experiential learning, a tailored curriculum, public events and programming spaces.

Students taking part in this summer’s Civil Rights Trail trip had the opportunity to attend a lecture at the Legacy Museum in Montgomery, Georgia. (Contributed photo).

Civil Rights Trail trip is historical and personal for VCU students

Sept. 17, 2025

The summer journey from the Department of Political Science is experiential learning and, for senior Alexandra Hardesty and others, a reinforcement of passion.

Nelson Wikstrom, the educator, researcher, author and public speaker, impressed colleagues and students alike with his vast political science knowledge. (File photo)

Nelson Wikstrom, longtime professor of political science, dies at 85

Sept. 16, 2025

The former department chair co-authored a leading textbook on intergovernmental relations.

VCU announces recipients of 2025 faculty awards for scholarship, teaching excellence

Sept. 10, 2025

Interim Provost Beverly J. Warren today announced 30 winners of VCU’s National/International Recognition Awards and 25 winners of the Excellence in Pedagogical Innovation Awards.

In July, third-year political science majors Ella Milton-Benoit and Rebecca Weil took part in the Summer Leadership Institute sponsored by Virginia21. (Contributed photo)

Political science students get crash course in community leadership

Sept. 4, 2025

Undergraduates Ella Milton-Benoit and Rebecca Weil bring lessons from statewide summer institute back to VCU.

A VCU researcher’s new study evaluates how different types of state legislatures can impact the effectiveness of women lawmakers. (Getty Images)

Are women better lawmakers than men? A nuanced yes, VCU researcher finds

Aug. 22, 2025

However, women serving on less professional state legislatures struggle to overcome lower-ranked committee assignments and entrenched sexism.