Maxwell School News and Commentary

"If the allegations are true, the abuse of power is significant, and many members of Congress will be motivated to conduct impeachment proceedings," says William Banks, professor emeritus of public administration and international affairs.

"It’s damning by any account just for the mere fact that he asked a foreign leader to investigate private citizens for potential personal political gain is egregious," says Christopher Faricy, associate professor of political science. "The question, what else is out there that we are not aware of, either with the Ukranian President or even other countries and leaders."

"The more moderate Democrats are recalculating, thinking they have to get on board with this [President Trump's impeachment] or face primaries" from left-leaning insurgents, says Professor of Political Science Grant Reeher. "The facts have also changed" since the Russia investigation, he adds.

Prior to joining the faculty at Virginia Tech, Stephanie Smith '09 Ph.D. (PA) was an associate professor at the University of New Mexico. She has also worked in the nonprofit sector in San Francisco and served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Vladivostok, Russia, prior to her return to academia.

Jode Millman ’76 B.A. (Soc) has released a thriller novel titled "The Midnight Call." Millman currently co-hosts and co-produces the Backstage with the Bardavon podcast, a series that invites listeners backstage for conversations with musicians and other performers. When not writing, Millman has worked as a lawyer specializing in copyright, trademark, matrimonial and real estate law.

In his new position as public engagement manager for the City of Menlo Park, California, Clay Curtin '06 M.P.A. will be responsible for implementing a pilot program to increase community engagement. This role, which was newly created for Curtin, is meant to help unite members of the community and community groups directly with city commissions. 

In her new role, Honora Spillane '09 J.D./M.P.A. will work on CenterState CEO’s business development portfolio. CenterState CEO is a nonprofit based in Syracuse that focuses on connecting businesses across Central and Northern New York.

"The most the Israelis are willing to offer does not meet the minimum demands of the Palestinians. This includes a viable, independent state with sovereignty over its borders and resources," says Osamah Khalil, associate professor of history.

Claire Sigsworth and Nathan Carrington, Ph.D. students in political science, suggest that the overall legitimacy of Britain’s highest court will remain intact.

"Historically, grandparents have always provided care," says University Professor Madonna Harrington Meyer. "What we’re seeing now is grandparents providing care that looks a lot more like parenting: more hours and more tasks."