College of Social Sciences and Public Policy
at Florida State University
Established as the College of Social Sciences in the fall of 1973 as part of a university-wide academic reorganization, our college began with just five departments: economics, geography, government (now political science), sociology, and urban and regional planning.
There’s been much growth over the years, with 12 departments and interdisciplinary programs now housed within the college, along with 11 centers and institutes.
Engage Magazine is the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy’s annual magazine highlighting the successes of our students, faculty, staff, and alumni.
We invite you to read the newest issue, as well as previous editions, on our website here.
Matthew Becker, Ph.D. – two-time FSU alumnus (B.S. Political Science ’07 & M.S. International Affairs ’09) – was nominated by the U.S. Department of State to serve as a member of the U.S. Delegation to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) as an international election observer for the June 2 local election. He served with the OSCE’s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights’ Election Observation Mission to Serbia, for the country’s June elections.
Natalie Gonzalez – second-year student majoring in Political Science – was hired as a Legal Intern for Zumpano Patricios, P.A. Law Firm in Miami, Florida, for the duration of this summer.
The Department of Political Science within the College of Social Science and Public Policy has a rich history dating back to Florida State University’s genesis. While courses exploring government, law, and politics can be found as far back as the very first university bulletin in 1851, the Department of Political Science was established in 1947, when the Florida State College for Women became Florida State University. Under the leadership of Marian D. Irish, Ph.D., the department began with only six faculty members. Dr. Irish would serve as the department chair until her retirement in 1966. The current Political Science Department Chair Brad Gomez, Ph.D., leads the department as it continues to ascend in prestige to this day.
Megan McEnery – a third-year Political Science and Interdisciplinary Social Science (ISS) student – was recognized with the 2023-2024 Mattie Durham Senator of the Year Award for best serving students, the Student Senate, and the university community during their term.
The College of Social Sciences and Public Policy invites our Summer 2024 graduates and their families and friends to join us for a come-and-go reception in Bellamy’s First Floor Atrium on commencement morning from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Friday, August 2.
Jason Puwalski – FSU alumnus (B.S. Political Science and Public Relations ’24) – completed his term as a member of the 2023-2024 Class of Florida Gubernatorial Fellows and is poised to enter FSU’s MAAPP program in 2024.
When Jack Folwell considered majors at Florida State University, he knew his favorite classes were in physics and American politics.
Ella Garcia – third-year student majoring in Political Science – passed legislation in FSU’s Student Senate this year to fund 2,000 free drink covers for students on campus. After realizing the extent of the issue of drink spiking on campus, Garcia met with FSUPD to find a pragmatic solution to protect students from the increase […]
