Dr. John Clark Receives the Founders Award

Dr.

John Clark, political science, received the Founders Award from the Michigan Political Science Association at its annual conference last month. The Founders Award is presented for outstanding contributions to the discipline of political science and to the work of the association. These contributions include participation and leadership in the association, scholarship, and support for the enhancement of the study of political science.

Clark joined the WMU faculty in 1998 and became chair of the Political Science Department in 2010. His research and teaching focus on American politics with specialization in political parties and elections, legislative politics, and politics of the American South. He was recognized for Outstanding Achievement In Research and Creative Activity by the WMU College of Arts and Sciences in 2007.

Clark has held various roles on the MIPSA Executive Board since 2003, including a term as president in 2007-08. As president-elect, he created a best paper competition for undergraduate and graduate students that he continues to coordinate.

The Michigan Political Science Association was founded in 1969 as the Michigan Conference of Political Scientists. It is a nonpartisan state professional association of educators, scholars, students, and practitioners dedicated to advancing the systematic study of government, politics, and public policy. Its annual conference is the longest running of any state political science association in the country.

Clark is the second WMU faculty member to receive the Founders Award. Peter Kobrak, professor emeritus of public affairs and administration, received the honor in 2003.