A Note from the Editor
Welcome to the very first issue of our departmental newsletter! We’re thrilled to have a new way to connect our students, faculty, alumni, and community partners. The Department of Political Science and Public Service continues to grow in exciting ways- from faculty research that’s shaping national conversations to student projects making a local impact here in Chattanooga. We hope this newsletter becomes a regular way to share and celebrate all that’s happening in our PSPS family.
Upcoming Departmental Events
These are events our department is hosting in the near future, so keep an eye out!
PSPS Interest Meeting
October 20th – MCB 268 – 4pm
Do you know a student who’s curious about Political Science or the Master of Public Administration program? Invite them to attend one of our upcoming Interest Meetings! These sessions are a great way for students to learn more about the major, career opportunities, and how our programs help prepare them to make a difference in their communities. Please help us spread the word by encouraging anyone who might be considering a major change or graduate study to join us!
Poll Workers and Poll Watchers in the Electoral Process
October 22nd – Lupton 393 – 5:30-8pm
Dr. Chris Acuff
Interested in serving as a poll worker or poll watcher for upcoming elections in Tennessee? Join members of the League of Women Voters of Chattanooga who will give their insights on serving as poll workers in Hamilton County and discuss common challenges voters face during elections with which poll watchers often assist. PSPS students are invited to attend “Poll Workers and Poll Watchers in the Electoral Process” during Dr. Acuff’s Election Administration class this Wednesday, October 22, from 5:30-8:00 in Lupton 393. This session is co-sponsored by the UTC chapter of the League of Women Voters. We hope to see you there!
Sweet Research Series
October 27th – MCB 268 – 11am
Dr. Rita J Groh
Faculty Features
Our faculty are not only dedicated to providing a world-class education to our students, but are also committed to their own research projects, workshops, journals, and more!
Dr. Saeid Golkar
Dr. Golkar has had a busy fall publishing and sharing insights on Iranian politics and military elites across several prominent outlets.
In addition to his written work, Dr. Golkar recently gave interviews with The Atlantic (September 5, 2025) and Fakartany (Egyptian media, in Arabic, September 14, 2025). His research continues to draw international attention to the political dynamics shaping Iran’s institutions and leadership.
His recent works include:
- “Survival Over Defection: Why Iran’s Military Elites Stay Loyal,” American Purpose, September 12, 2025.
- “The Stories That Shed Light on Power in Iran,” Newsline Magazine, September 16, 2025.
- “The Islamic Republic’s War on Its Universities Is Accelerating,” Middle East Forum Observer, October 9, 2025, reprinted October 13, 2025, in American Purpose.
- “Tehran’s Dual Strategy for Surviving Snapback,” Foreign Policy, October 14, 2025, also translated into Persian for Euro News.
Dr. Irina Khmelko
This fall, Dr. Khmelko celebrates her 15th year at UTC! Her commitment to teaching, mentorship, and international research continues to enrich our department and inspire students.
In addition to this milestone, Dr. Khmelko was recently featured in a UTC News article highlighting her experience in South Korea, where she observed democracy in action. When South Korea’s president declared martial law in December 2024, the nation’s democracy faced a pivotal test. Parliament’s swift decision to overturn the decree became a defining moment that Dr. Khmelko witnessed firsthand.
Reflecting on the experience, she emphasized the importance of civic participation and the resilience of democratic institutions- lessons she continues to bring into her classroom.
Read the full story here: UTC Professor Learns Firsthand How Democracy Was Defended in South Korea.
Dr. Michelle Deardorff
We are proud to highlight Dr. Michelle Deardorff, who recently co-authored a new textbook, Race and Law in the United States: A Contemporary Perspective (Cambridge University Press, 2025). The book examines how U.S. legal history and court decisions continue to shape debates about race today, helping students connect past decisions to contemporary issues. With its engaging approach and supporting teaching resources, this work reflects Dr. Deardorff’s dedication to scholarship and her commitment to fostering thoughtful, informed discussions in the classroom.
For more information: Race and the Law in the United States
Student Features
Student Organization Spotlight: Political Science Club
President: Greg Layne
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Jeremy Strickler
Next Meeting: October 27th, 2025
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Event Highlights
Atlanta LSAC Law Forum
Friday, September 26th, 2025
“At the Atlanta Law Forum, we had 24 students attend from across CAS majors, with the majority being pre-law. They attended a panel discussion on law school admissions and had the option to attend additional sessions on financing law school and preparing for the LSAT. Perhaps most valuable was the opportunity to connect directly with representatives from more than 175 law schools, which gave our students a broad sense of the possibilities ahead of them.” – Dr. Trevor Samaha, Pre-Law Advisor
Rule of Law Symposium
Tuesday, September 29th, 2025
The Rule of Law Symposium, organized by Dr. Michelle Deardorff, was an exceptional day of learning and engagement for students, faculty, and members of the judiciary. More than 150 participants gathered for an in-depth exploration of justice, accountability, and democracy in action.
Students from Political Science and Public Service, History, and Criminal Justice met in small groups with federal judges for candid conversations about life on the bench. The main panel featured three federal district judges, two magistrate judges, and a bankruptcy judge who discussed the courts’ role in a democratic system and responded to questions from Dr. Deardorff’s American Constitutional Law class.
Throughout the day, students examined what it truly means to uphold justice and accountability in a democratic society. Events like this demonstrate the department’s commitment to providing hands-on experiences that bring classroom learning to life and connect students with professionals who shape the world of law and public service.
Internship Opportunities
Want to learn more? Check out the PSPS Canvas page for internship listings and application details, or reach out to Dr. Marcus Mauldin for internship advising.
The University of Tennessee Division of Government Relations & Advocacy
2026 Spring Semester (January-May) Legislative Intern
Academic credit (between 3 and 15 hours) is available
Applications can be submitted until October 24
Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center
Spring 2026 semester Development Intern
Volunteer Internship
All In Chattanooga
Volunteer Internship
Volunteer or Academic Credit
University Events
Here are some other cool events you should check out!
- All Majors Job and Internship Fair
October 21st, 2025 – Wolford Center – 11am-3pm - UTC College Republicans host Tom Griscom
October 21st, 2025 – Grote 131 – 5pm - UTC Fall Research Conference
October 28th and 29th, 2025 – Virtual – 8am-5pm
Submission due October 26th, 2025
Academic Calendar
October 27th- Last Day to Withdraw with a W
November 26th- 30th- Thanksgiving Break
December 1st- Last day of Fall Semester Classes
December 3rd- 9th- Final Exams
Quote of the Month:
| The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. |
– Eleanor Roosevelt
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