David Root
Peace Corps Bangladesh, US State Department, Inclusive Leadership Specialist
Welcome to all alumni!
International relations majors are accomplishing incredible things in Michigan and all around the world. We love to hear from you! If you'd be interested in being featured in one of our spotlights, send an email to [email protected] with a picture and some or all of the following:
If you are looking to make contact with fellow alumni, check out the GVSU PLS and IR alumni Facebook group.
If you need a letter of recommendation, you'll find our letter of recommendation guidelines here, and faculty contact information here.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Peace Corps Bangladesh, US State Department, Inclusive Leadership Specialist
Kaylin Klein now working for Fidelity Investments
Grand Rapids Paralegal Volunteers with Iraqi Refugee Community
2002 Graduate Becomes Managing Director at Conway MacKenzie
Attorney for Freedom House Represents Asylum Seekers
Periodically, the Political Science Department is asked by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences to invite a Political Science or International Relations alumnus to campus for the Distinguished Alumni-in-Residence program. The program provides a venue for departments to invite outstanding alumni back to campus to share their post-graduation experiences with the GVSU community. Through the program, our distinguished alumni have the opportunity to share their insights about what constitutes strong academic preparation for students.
Political Science and International Relations Distinguished Alumni-in-Residence:
James Spaanstra 2005
Edward Cardenas 2006
Bob Monaghan 2007
James Meernik 2010
Nerina Cevra 2012
Richard Damstra 2015
Tim Zeeb 2017
Alan Dunklow 2019
Assistant Attorney General for Maryland
Political Science Professor
Corporate Executive and Nonprofit Leader
Managing Director in Finance
Media and Communications Expert
IR Alum Jessica Geisler is starting her JD studies this fall at Wayne Law.
Sep 18, 2024
Aaron McGhee is the winner of the 2024 Zeeb Scholarship for Study Abroad
Jul 3, 2024
Sarah D. Pullins is the winner of the Outstanding Paper Award for Political Science and International Relations.
May 3, 2024
Jackson Tisdale is the recipient of the Grand Valley in DC Scholarship for the 2023-24 academic year. The purpose of this alumni-funded scholarship is to assist students in pursuing internship opportunities in Washington, D.C.
Apr 5, 2024
Dr. Tafel wins Pew Teaching Excellence Award
Feb 19, 2024
November 21, 2024 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Join us for the culmination of Global Horizons Week by enjoying international cuisine with other folks interested in global issues & cultures!
November 23, 2024 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Global Gala is a cultural showcase that highlights the many diverse cultures within Grand Valley's community as well as our surrounding area. This event was created to bring together the community...
November 25, 2024 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
At this event, we take time to honor the accomplishments and strengths of all Latinas. We celebrate our history, cultures, and diversity with pride and recognize women who have impacted their community....
December 6, 2024 2:00 PM
Drop-in Days of Service are on-campus opportunities for students to "drop in" and complete service projects for service hours. They are located on GVSU's Allendale Campus in Kirkhof...
January 25, 2025 8:00 AM
The MLK Jr. Day of Service and Solidarity is part of a national day of service where campuses across America gather to serve and stand in solidarity with their communities in honor of Dr. Martin Luther...