SJSU Political Science Alumni Association

05/30/2026

Rebecca Elliot ('94)

04/21/2026

In the News with Professor Jackson, "It’s hard to overstate how important these debates are going to be."

“It’s hard to overstate how important these debates are going to be,” said Melinda Jackson, a political science professor at San Jose State University.

04/19/2026

04/13/2026

In the News: Karthika Sasikumar, political science professor." I think we will see an Iran that is militarily weaker. There's no doubting the fact that Iran's airforce, Iran's navy have been hit very hard by the United States. They're even less likely now to give up their potential to have a nuclear weapons program than they were before these hostilities began. Despite the two-week ceasefire, there are still many details to work out. And depending on what happens next, the region could be in for a period of increased uncertainty. It's been a delicate balancing act for the United States. Because the U.S. has tried to balance the need to keep its ally Israel safe with the need to keep the oil flowing, to keep the Gulf allies happy. But that balance may no longer be possible."

There are still many details to work out, despite the two-week ceasefire. However, the price of oil started to drop since the news was announced Tuesday.

04/03/2026

JOIN US IN CELEBRATING KENNETH PETER’S RETIREMENT

Dear Friends, Family, and Alumni,

The Department of Political Science at San José State University warmly invites you to join us in celebrating Professor Kenneth Peter’s retirement — honoring his decades of dedication, scholarship, mentorship, and leadership that have left a lasting mark on our department and community.

Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Location: San José State University, Student Union Ballroom (2nd Floor)
Time: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Parking: Available in the SJSU North Garage (map)

Enjoy an evening of refreshments, entertainment, and heartfelt tributes as we celebrate Professor Peter’s outstanding career and the many lives he’s touched.

03/29/2026

Fernando Torres-Gil ('70) will deliver the Spring 2026 Don Edwards Lecture and you are invited.

"The Politics of Aging: Entering the Brave New World of Intergenerational Tensions and Opportunities"

April 16, 7 p.m. Student Union Theater

03/23/2026

Edesa Bitbadal ('96) is Director of Public Affairs, West Region at Digital Realty.

03/20/2026

SJSU Poli Sci Professor Karthika Sasikumar has won the university's 2025-2026 Distinguished Service Award. The award recognizes exemplary service and leadership contributions to the University and the community or profession in a way that brings credit to San José State University.

Karthika said “Ever since I stepped on campus 16 years ago, I felt at home here. In a time where immigrants and higher education are under attack, as an international faculty member I’m grateful to be part of the system where my contributions are valued. My service activities, which were recognized with the Distinguished Service Award this year, are my way of giving back to the SJSU community.

03/17/2026

Professor Mary Currin-Percival has won the university's Outstanding Professor Award. Congratulations! Mary Currin-Percival said, “It's an honor and a privilege to work with our incredible students. As a first gen college student who navigated college and graduate school through hard work, exceptional mentoring, financial aid and some luck, I don’t underestimate the potential impact I can have on students. My mentors changed my life; they made me believe that I could have this career. I hope to be there for my students as my mentors were there for me. My advice to Spartans is to celebrate this amazing university experience and take care of each other.” (Plus she reminded us all to register to vote.)

03/16/2026

Fred Griefer ('05) in the news.... Fred was recently selected for Cal State Long Beach's 49 under 49 award. His MBA is from
CSU-LB but his BA is from SJSU!