Jessica Soto Smith
2011 Graduate at the Buffett Institute for Global Studies at Northwestern University, manages the marketing and communication strategy for NCA.
Welcome to all alumni!
International relations majors are accomplishing incredible things in Michigan and all around the world. We love to hear from you! If you'd be interested in being featured in one of our spotlights, send an email to [email protected] with a picture and some or all of the following:
If you are looking to make contact with fellow alumni, check out the GVSU PLS and IR alumni Facebook group.
If you need a letter of recommendation, you'll find our letter of recommendation guidelines here, and faculty contact information here.
We look forward to hearing from you!
2011 Graduate at the Buffett Institute for Global Studies at Northwestern University, manages the marketing and communication strategy for NCA.
Associate Director for both the Global Trade Alert and Digital Policy Alert in Switzerland.
2004 Graduate Now Program Manager at Pardee RAND Graduate School
Business Immigration Analyst and Paralegal for Fragomen
2006 Graduate Leads Economic Development in Detroit
Periodically, the Political Science Department is asked by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences to invite a Political Science or International Relations alumnus to campus for the Distinguished Alumni-in-Residence program. The program provides a venue for departments to invite outstanding alumni back to campus to share their post-graduation experiences with the GVSU community. Through the program, our distinguished alumni have the opportunity to share their insights about what constitutes strong academic preparation for students.
Political Science and International Relations Distinguished Alumni-in-Residence:
James Spaanstra 2005
Edward Cardenas 2006
Bob Monaghan 2007
James Meernik 2010
Nerina Cevra 2012
Richard Damstra 2015
Tim Zeeb 2017
Alan Dunklow 2019
Political Science Professor
Media and Communications Expert
Energy and Natural Resources Attorney
Corporate Executive and Nonprofit Leader
Human Rights Lawyer
Olivia Robach (PLS and IR double major) earned a scholarship to join student scholars from around the US to attend the annual conference of the World Affairs Council in Washington, DC in November 2025.
Dec 3, 2025
IR alum Kyla Ozinga is starting law school at Case Western
Sep 16, 2025
PLS, IR and Human Rights alum Taylor Bessinger is attending the University of Illinois College of Law
Sep 12, 2025
Professor Polly Diven received the 2025 Hillman-Orr Award from the World Affairs Council of West Michigan.
Jun 23, 2025
September 8, 2026 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Welcome! Join us to explore the world of nationally competitive fellowships.Planning to apply for the Gilman to help defray the cost of GVSU undergraduate study abroad? Exploring Fulbright or another...
September 9, 2026 6:00 PM
New to voting? Learn everything you need to know about registering, understanding the voting process, and casting your ballot with confidence. This beginner-friendly workshop is perfect for first-time...
September 10, 2026 1:00 PM
Looking to Make a Difference or Gain Real-World Experience? Explore dozens of meaningful volunteer and internship opportunities at the Non-Profit Volunteer and Internship Fair at KIRKHOF CENTER NORTH...
September 16, 2026 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
The Gilman deadline is approaching! Now is the time to craft, reflect and revise your essay drafts. This is a time for you to brainstorm content, outline and discuss. By...
September 23, 2026 6:00 PM
Explore the history and evolution of voting rights in the United States, from past struggles to today's challenges. Join the GVSU NAACP for an engaging discussion on the importance of protecting...