The Dean's Newsletter

A MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN

Hello CPS Community,

As we approach the end of the academic year, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude for your exceptional dedication and hard work throughout this year. Your contributions have been instrumental in making this academic year successful despite the challenges we faced. Your passion for excellence and unwavering support for our students and community have fostered a pathway for success for them.


At our recent All College meeting, we celebrated several CPS Catalysts, members of our faculty and staff that have gone above and beyond this year to help the College achieve our strategic planning goals. Thank you to all who lifted up fellow faculty and staff in nomination for this new annual award series.

Dean riddle

In the midst of our celebrations, I was filled with a mix of emotions from the announcement of Program Director Larry Parnell's upcoming retirement from the Graduate School of Political Management. While we will miss his expertise and presence dearly, I am excited for him as he embarks on new opportunities. Larry's contributions have been invaluable, and his legacy will continue to resonate within our community.

We are excited to announce our GW Arlington Education Center has a newly renovated first floor, reflecting our Catalyst campaign, designed by the award-winning Humble & Wallop creative agency. We look forward to redefining the learning experience and using the renovated spaces for classes and special events. 

Blue walls, 2 tones of GW blue,logo

As we embrace Spring, it comes with an exciting announcement for our community at CPS! Introducing our newest Signature Event: Talent Scout. This innovative initiative embodies the very heart of CPS, celebrating community and fostering growth. Inspired by the spirit of one of our current students who introduced us to a talented friend or co-worker, we're thrilled to embrace individuals who will undoubtedly enrich our community and help shape the future generation of leaders. This essence of recognizing and embracing talent is what truly sets CPS apart. Stay tuned for more details on this special event coming your way next month!


As we eagerly anticipate Commencement, I am reminded of why this time of year holds a special place in our hearts. It is a celebration of achievement, perseverance, and the countless hours of hard work invested by our graduates. To our soon-to-be alumni, know that we take immense pride in their accomplishments and stand ready to support them in their future endeavors. As we all know, their journey with CPS doesn't end here—it evolves into a lifelong connection. So, as they embark on this new chapter, they know to keep in touch, for your time, talent, and treasure are gifts that enrich our community immeasurably.


I encourage you to take a moment to relax and stay informed by tuning into the latest episodes of Mastering the Room and The Professionals podcast


Here's to the bright futures that lie ahead and the enduring bonds that unite us as members of the CPS family.

Warm regards,

Liesl A. Riddle signature in cursive

Liesl Riddle, Ph.D.

Dean, College of Professional Studies

The George Washington University

The Cafritz Awards Program Recognizes the Unsung Heroes of Public Service in the Heart of the Nation’s Capital

Cafrtiz Awards Gala banner by table

On Thursday, April 4th, the Center for Excellence in Public Leadership (CEPL) at the College of Professional Studies, hosted the 21st Annual Cafritz Awards Gala, celebrating the remarkable accomplishments of the winners of this year’s Cafritz Awards program.


The Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation partners with CEPL to recognize and reward outstanding performance and exemplary service by DC Government employees. This year, five individuals and one team received the highly competitive awards.


Read more

GSPM's 2024 Election Hub Now Live!

The Graduate School of Political Management's (GSPM) 2024 Election Hub is a one-stop clearinghouse to find out about everything election-related going on at GSPM. The new website resource has been created to provide insights from our expert faculty, including news clips, podcast episodes, polling data, political events, scholarly research and more. Check back frequently for updates during the election season.

Visit the GSPM Election Hub

First Ever Catalyst Awards Presented by CPS Dean

Our CPS faculty and staff make remarkable contributions to our college community through their work in areas of community, innovation & learning and partnerships. We invited nominations for each of these areas and announced seven winners at the recent All Hands college meeting.


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Renovated Arlington Education Center Reflects New College Catalyst Brand

We are excited to announce our GW Arlington Education Center has a newly renovated first floor, where tradition meets transformation. Our College of Professional Studies’ Catalyst campaign, designed by the award-winning Humble & Wallop creative agency, has ignited a revolution in student classroom spaces, redefining the learning experience. Discover an environment designed to inspire creativity, collaboration, and discovery. Every detail fosters a culture of ingenuity and exploration. 


Read more

Celebrating Women in Homeland Security

8 people, 7 women, 1 man. Speakers, faculty, CPS dean

Four distinguished panelists provided unique insights into the roles women play in the field of homeland security. The in-person event held March 21 celebrated women in homeland security and the diverse opportunities available to women to contribute to the homeland security mission. Additionally, the conversation focused on preparing for and succeeding in this field.


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DMV Student Journal Symposium for Literary and Research Publications

DMV Student Journal Symposium flyer

The DMV Student Journal Symposium for Literary and Research Publications, held on April 26, 2024, was the first of a proposed annual symposium of undergraduate and graduate student-led journals.

This event provided opportunities for all those interested in student publications to engage in interactive workshops and roundtable conversations, hear from plenary speakers and student panelists, and connect with fellow university journals in the DC area.


We aimed to foster conversation on best editorial, leadership, and community practices and discover how to support student publications. Topics included sustainable leadership, ethics, diversity, and navigating AI in submissions.


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2024 Giving Day Donations Increased More than 200%

For 24 hours on April 3, GW community members had the opportunity to make a difference as part of Giving Day, an annual philanthropic celebration highlighting various programs across GW including student scholarship and financial aid. This year’s donations increased more than 200% college wide, with a 309% increase for CPS and a 238% increase for GSPM. Alumni outreach efforts helped boost this year’s engagement and philanthropic support. 


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Apply Today: Global Perspective Residency in EU-Brussels

Every year, GSPM faculty lead short-term study abroad courses that explore the political and socio-economic environments of countries outside the United States. The Residencies involve four compressed weeks of online three-credit coursework, followed by a one-week onsite program in a world capital. Students recently traveled to Spain, Brazil, The Republic of Georgia and the UK. Upcoming programs include EU-Brussels and Mexico.


Apply by May 10 for the EU-Brussels course, offering unparalleled insights into the workings of the European Union, coupled with engaging sessions, site visits and networking opportunities that promise to enrich your academic journey.


Read more and APPLY BY MAY 10!

Check out the Chief Influencer Podcast by Rep. Andy Kim

Chief influencer logo transparent quality

Listen to the most recent Chief Influencer podcast episode featuring Congressman Kim for Social Driver. In this episode, Congressman Kim speaks with Chief Influencer’s host, Anthony Shop, about his commitment to embracing discomfort and pushing for fairness and equality in public service. Congressman Kim discusses his experiences facing challenges during his political campaigns, including taking legal action against party leaders and cleaning up the U.S. Capitol after the January 6 attacks.


Listen to Episode #46 Now

Final Summer Application Deadline: Semester in Washington

Semester in Washington Program (SIW) is now accepting applications for summer 2024. Focused on applied politics, this year-round transformative and immersive educational experience offers undergraduate students from around the world a unique opportunity to delve into the inner workings of American government while gaining practical skills and insights into political management.


Apply today -- Final Summer Deadline May 10!

UPCOMING STUDENT & COMMUNITY EVENTS

For Students: Spring 2024 Final Exam Resources

The Final Lap blue Hippo image

GW offers academic assistance and stress-relieving, community building resources for students to finish the end of the academic year strong. Final Lap events include academic resources, counseling services, food trucks, and even relaxing visits with therapy dogs. The events take place at scheduled times through May 9.


More info on GW Today

Join the Graduate School of Political Management Student Association (GSPMSA) Today

Join the GSPMSA today to find out about upcoming events, including academic, professional, and social engagement activities for students. Events and activities will foster collaboration, skill development, and networking for students who are currently pursuing or interested in a career in politics. GSPMSA students also share information and ideas with fellow students. 


Register as a member of the GSPMSA through the Engage platform, or using this student association link. Please reach out to gspmsa@gwu.edu with any questions, or to learn more about this exciting opportunity.

Carly Cooperman

2024 GSPM Toast the Network & Alumni Achievement Awards

May 15, 2024, 6 PM-8 PM | In-Person, Washington, DC


Please join Dean Liesl Riddle and the GSPM alumni and faculty communities in honoring this year’s Alumni Achievement Award recipient(s)! The event will be an opportunity to celebrate the special achievements of our award winners and toast the graduating students who will be the newest members of our alumni community. All members of the GSPM alumni community and graduating students are invited to attend.

Toast the Network

College of Professional Studies Spring Open House

May 8, 2024, 6 PM-7:30 PM | Virtual Explore a wide range of Bachelors, Masters, and Graduate Certificate Programs.


More Info / Join the event on Zoom

Sustainable Urban Planning Program: Capstone Showcase

Friday, May 10, 2024, 5:30 PM - 8 (with reception following)

Hybrid event open to students, alumni, faculty, prospective students, and the public.

Join GW's Sustainable Urban Planning program as our Spring 2024 graduates present their capstone projects on GW's main campus and online! The Capstone is the culminating experience for students in the master’s program in Sustainable Urban Planning.


Their individual projects showcase the knowledge, skills and abilities students have learned. Students’ projects are used to demonstrate mastery of the program’s materials and goals. Students often share their capstone and studio projects with prospective employers to show that they can do professional-level planning work. Our studio clients also have written letters of recommendation for students and provide internships and employment opportunities.


Register to attend

Celebration 2024 College of Professional Studies

CPS Commencement Celebration


May 18, 2024, 7 PM

Charles E. Smith Center

Washington, DC


Visit the CPS Commencement Website

GW Commencement


May 19, 2024, 10:30 AM

National Mall Washington, DC


Visit the GW Commencement website

National Monument
More Upcoming Events

CPS IN THE NEWS

Comments from Dr. Scott White

Sinclair Broadcast Group quoted Scott White in the article “Ransomware attacks surge worries cybersecurity experts: 'Scattered Spider' group in focus.’’ 


DC News Now spoke to Scott White, associate professor of cybersecurity, about the AT&T data breach.


Rich on Tech spoke to Scott White about legislation that would ban Tik Tok unless it is sold.

Comments from Dr. Matt Dallek

The American Podcast interviewed Matt Dallek for the episode “An Implausible Mr. Buckley.”


Washington Examiner quoted Matthew Dallek in the article “Trump, stuck in NYC court, forced to find ‘creative’ ways to win the White House.’’ 


Straight White American Jesus spoke with Matt Dallek for the episode “John Birch Society x Today’s GOP.”

Comments from Dr. Todd Belt

Lilly Broadcasting quoted Todd Belt in the article “Local PA Primary Races for Congress Largely Uncontested."


Spectrum News quoted Todd Belt in the article “Democrats outraised GOP candidates in key Senate races by millions,’’ 


Spectrum News quoted Todd Belt the article “Central Valley's Valadao granted chair of coveted appropriations subcommittee,’’


Spectrum News quoted Todd Belt in the article “Sen. Sherrod Brown leads Bernie Moreno in fundraising, according to latest campaign finance reports,’’


Sinclair Broadcast Group quoted Todd Belt in the article “Arizona now 'epicenter' of abortion debate; maybe presidential politics, as well,’’ 


Sinclair Broadcast News quoted Todd Belt in the article “Pressure builds for Trump and Biden to commit to debates before November election,’ by Kayla Gaskins.


Spectrum News quoted Todd Belt about how former President Trump is using his hush-money trial to his political advantage.

The Hill quoted Todd Belt in the article “The Memo: Democratic dissent over Israel grows, deepening Biden’s dilemma.’’


Sinclair Broadcast Group quoted Todd Belt in the article “Are you enthused? Gallup takes temperature of voters,’’


Sinclair Broadcast Group quoted Todd Belt in the article “Trump, Biden stake ground in abortion fight with eyes on fall election,’’


Nexstar Media Group spoke to Todd Belt about the latest unemployment report and its impact on the presidential race.


Agence France-Presse quoted Todd Belt in the article “Trump In Court, Biden In The Kitchen: 2024 Is A Campaign Like No Other,’’


Lilly Broadcasting quoted Todd Belt in the article “The Motion to Vacate Speaker Johnson and the Impact it Could Have,’’


Vox quoted Todd Belt in the article “How the threat of a government shutdown became normalized."

Comments from Dr. Casey Burgat

Sinclair Broadcast Group quoted Casey Burgat in the article “House speaker trying to thread a needle with separate foreign aid bills, expert says’’ 


Spectrum News quoted Casey Burgat in the article “Democrat-aligned House Majority PAC spending over $27 million in initial ads in California,’’ by Cassie Semyon.  


Spectrum News quoted Casey Burgat in the article “Speaker Johnson is facing a motion to vacate. Will California Democrats save him?’’ by Cassie Semyon.


Washington Examiner quoted Casey Burgat in the article “Strong jobs, strong growth, not enough: The economic win still eluding Biden.’’

Spectrum News quoted Casey Burgat in the article “Congressional recess ends, but tensions continue.’’ 


Spectrum News spoke to Casey Burgat about how abortion could affect voter turnout in Florida.


Spectrum News spoke to Casey Burgat about the early departure of Colorado Rep. Ken Buck.


CNN Newsource spoke with Casey Burgat on the primary election to fill Kevin McCarthy’s congressional seat.


Cox Media Group quoted Casey Burgat in the article “As support grows for a federal Election Day holiday, experts warn of some potential challenges.’’

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