Women & Politics Institute

Associate Professor

Jennifer L. Lawless graduated from Union College in Schenectady, New York, with a B.A. in political science. She went on to receive an M.A. and Ph.D. in political science from Stanford University. A nationally recognized expert on women's involvement... [More]

Jonathan N. Helfat Distinguished Professor of Political Science

Karen O’Connor is the Jonathan N. Helfat Distinguished Professor of Political Science and the Founder and Director Emerita of the Women & Politics Institute at American University. Before coming to American University, Karen taught political science... [More]

Assistant Director, WPI

My-Lien completed her M.A. in Comparative Politics of Gender & Development from American University in 2010. In 2008, My-Lien received her graduate certificate in Women, Policy & Political Leadership (WPPL) from the Women & Politics Institute. She co... [More]

Andrew Reef works as a Program Associate for the Women & Politics Institute. He graduated Magna Cum Laude from American University in 2011 with a B.A. in International Studies and a Minor in Chinese Language. Andrew began working for the Women & Poli... [More]

Part Time Staff

Erica Best works as a Program Associate for the Women & Politics Institute. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from American University in 2011 with a B.A. in Political Science and received the undergraduate certificate in Women, Policy & Political Leader... [More]