Political Science Department
The Political Science Department at WSU prepares students to be involved, well-educated citizens in our ever-changing world. Political Science graduates are well prepared for graduate study, law school or a career in government, business, or education.
Political Science is the study of the theory and practice of politics, government, and administration. As an academic discipline it includes:
- Public Law
- Public Policy
- Political Theory
- Public Administration
- International Relations
- Foreign Policy
- Comparative Governments of Modern and Developing Nations
Winona State Civic Center
Established in Fall 2024, The Winona State Civic Center has been making significant strides in fostering civility, community dialogue, and ethical leadership. The Center has focused on creating opportunities for meaningful interactions between community members, local leaders, and students.
We’re grateful for the ongoing support from the Winona community and our partners. Together, we’re building a culture of collaboration, understanding, and civic responsibility.
Contact us for more information or to get involved with the Civic Engagement Center. Let’s continue to work together to promote civility and ethical leadership in Southeast Minnesota and beyond.
Recent Accomplishments
The Center is dedicated to fostering respectful and constructive discussions on social issues.
Through a series of events called “Promoting Civility Through Dialogue,” we encourage open communication and aim to build a more united and understanding community.
We hosted one forum for community leaders in December and another forum for local 7th and 8th grade students in January.
The Center connected with public officials and employees of governments in Southeast Minnesota to establish partnerships and learn about the needs and interests of their communities.
We partnered with SE MN Together– a group of current and former local government administrators and employees, educators, and leaders of nonprofit organizations who work together to strengthen regional connections and build local capacity to solve their communities’ issues.
We launched an internship program involving students from various majors and skill sets. The program provides a way for students to gain experience in their chosen fields through event planning, marketing, social media campaigns, networking, and grant administration, all while fostering civic engagement.
Meet our team of Civic Engagement Specialists:
- Nicholas Fryer: Political Science and Public Administration double-major, 2024-25 Newman Fellow representing Winona State University
- Afrini Hossain: Human Services Professional graduate program with a concentration in leadership education
- Samantha Krohn: Mass Communication major with a political science minor
- Ellie Speltz: Biology: Life Science Teaching major with a philosophy minor
Looking Ahead
As part of our commitment to broadening civic engagement, the Winona State Civic Center is excited to announce two forthcoming programs. The speaker series on civic engagement, civility, and public service will feature prominent local and national names who inspire and educate participants on the value of public service, collaboration, ethical leadership, and active participation in democracy. Stay tuned for details on dates and guest speakers!
We will also be working with SE MN Together to host convenings of community leaders in the region on topics such as: building welcoming and inclusive communities, transportation coordination, affordable housing, and cooperation on regional development.
The American Democracy Project (ADP) is an initiative of 219 American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) campuses that seeks to create an intellectual and experiential understanding of civic engagement for undergraduates enrolled at institutions that are members of AASCU.
The goal of the project is to produce graduates who understand and are committed to engaging in meaningful actions as citizens in a democracy.
Voter Resources
You must be:
- A U.S. citizen
- At least 18 years old on Election Day
- A resident of Minnesota for 20 days
- Finished with all parts of any felony sentence