Mission Statement

The Department of Political Science is dedicated to the pursuit of academic excellence and diversity. Consistent with the overall mission of Iona College, the department strives to impart to students intellectual curiosity, the tools to assess and solve complex problems, and the skills to become independent, moral, and motivated decision-makers. In the liberal arts tradition, the department employs a wide variety of pedagogical techniques to reach all learners. The department faculty believes that a diverse curriculum composed of the key areas in the field (American government, Comparative Politics, International Relations, Political Theory, and Public Policy) will best prepare students to understand and assess politics both during their time at Iona, and after.

In support of these traditions, the Department of Political Science seeks to:

Provide students with the opportunity to take a wide array of courses that introduce students to both the intellectual content and research methods of political inquiry. In addition, department faculty will introduce to students the most up-to-date theory and incorporate current events. Faculty will use multiple pedagogical techniques to encourage active learning for students and will use frequent assessments of its teaching to ensure excellence in the classroom.

Constitution Day, Film Screening of "Brick by Brick: A Civil Rights Story" Dr. Brian Nickerson, Dean of the School of Arts and Science, Dr. Joseph Pastore (Federal Mediator), Dr. Jeanne Zaino (Professor of Political Science), Tricia Mulligan (Chair, Political Science), William Kavanagh (Director/Producer - Brick by Brick)

Scott T. O'Donnell, Political Science Major, Executive Vice President, SGA, speaking on behalf of the student body at the Ryan Library Dedication Ceremony

Provide students with the opportunity to take a wide array of courses that introduce students to both the intellectual content and research methods of political inquiry. In addition, department faculty will introduce to students the most up-to-date theory and incorporate current events. Faculty will use multiple pedagogical techniques to encourage active learning for students and will use frequent assessments of its teaching to ensure excellence in the classroom. Facilitate the development of critical reading, writing, and discussion skills with regard to timely, interesting, and vital public issues so that students might be sensitive to issues of morality and social justice. Impart to students the tools to assess government policy. Encourage student learning beyond the classroom by providing career advice to our majors, inviting representatives from the field, utilizing alumni contacts, and by directing quality internships and field experiences which provide a vehicle for professional development.

• Create life-long learners who possess a desire for knowledge, the capacity to evaluate political values, an appreciation of social justice and an understanding of the importance of public service.
• Provide accurate and timely academic advisement to department majors and minors.
• Frequently engage in self-assessment to evaluate whether the department goals outlined in this mission statement have been met.
• Establish and maintain connections with our alumni through surveys, newsletters, and special events.

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