The Department of Political Science has hosted a number of special events this spring. Through these events we have celebrated the outstanding students, faculty and staff of one of the best small departments of Political Science and Public Administration in the United States.

On Thursday, April 28th the Department, in conjunction with the Bureau of Governmental Affairs and Pi Sigma Alpha, hosted the Annual Frank Wenstrom Lecture at 7 p.m. in Gamble Hall Room 1. Distinguished citizens and public servants Earl Strinden and Lloyd Omdahl discussed and assessed the 2011 North Dakota legislative session. A question and answer session followed.

On Friday, April 29th The Masters of Public Administration Student Organization planned a conference to include an Advisory Board meeting, student research presentations, a supper and networking opportunity and evening speaker.

On Monday, May 2nd Professor Paul Sum presented “Locke Meets Rousseau: Reflections on Public Diplomacy and Cultural Exchange as a Fulbright Scholar in Romania” at 7 p.m. in the Lecture Bowl of the Student Union.

On Thursday, May 5th the Department hosted its Fourth Annual Awards and Recognition Reception in the James Ray Idea Lab at the Ina Mae Rude Entrepreneur Center (4200 James Ray Drive) from 4 to 6 p.m. There was a short program starting at 5 p.m. We recognized our graduating seniors, students completing their degrees in the Master of Public Administration program, departmental scholarship and award winners, and our majors who have been invited to join Phi Beta Kappa.

We also inducted new members of Phi Sigma Alpha. Following the awards ceremony, the students of the Public Affairs Club/Pi Sigma Alpha is hosting
an informal social.