Michigan State University Provost Teresa K. Woodruff, Ph.D., is recommending Cameron G. Thies as the next dean of James Madison College. The appointment will be effective July 1, 2021, pending approval by the Michigan State University Board of Trustees.
Dr. Thies currently serves as a professor of international relations in the School of Politics and Global Studies at Arizona State University, where he also served as director of ASU’s School of Politics and Global Studies from 2013-2020. Prior to that, he served as chairperson of the Department of Political Science at University of Iowa from 2010-2013. His research interests include foreign policy analysis, interstate and civil conflict, international trade and international relations theory. He has published in a broad range of high-profile journals, and his books have been published by esteemed university presses. He is the former founding co-editor-in-chief of Political Science Research and Methods and editor-in-chief of Foreign Policy Analysis.
“I am honored and thrilled to be joining James Madison College and Michigan State University,” said Thies. “JMC’s focus on educating students in public affairs is critical during these challenging times for our democracy. As I step into this leadership role, my aim and aspirations are to further enhance the amazing work of the college’s faculty and staff as they help transform today’s students into tomorrow’s leaders — within local communities, in Michigan, across the country and beyond.”
Professor Linda Racioppi served as interim dean for the past year and continued to advance the college's mission during an academic year that faced unprecedented challenges.
"Thanks to the work of the Dean Search Committee and the support of Provost Woodruff, we will be welcoming Dean Cameron Thies to Case Hall and MSU," Racioppi said. "Dr. Thies comes to us with an impressive scholarly record in his field of international relations and considerable administrative experience. I am confident he will be an excellent leader for our institution."