The Stylus

Valuing the GMU approach

This year’s recipient of the SPP Distinguished Professor Award went to Dr. Mark Rozell. Dr. Rozell is currently teaching a section of Public Policy (PUBP) 700 and an elective course on Religion and Public Policy. The Stylus recently got the chance to ask him a few questions regarding both his award and his life at the School of Public Policy (SPP).

The Stylus: What do you like best about Mason’s School of Public Policy?

Dr. Rozell: I value the interdisciplinary approach of SPP. Until I came here in 2004, I never realized just how much I would appreciate working in a policy program with colleagues from various disciplines. It makes for a vibrant atmosphere. Faculty learn from each other and students benefit enormously from this approach.

SPP has a highly successful program because of the good leadership, colleagueship and terrific staff here. Despite the differences among colleagues in fields of specialty, people here work together cooperatively. SPP is one of the rare academic environments where there is almost no factionalism, backbiting and other such nonsense that plagues much of academia. It’s a great environment where people can focus on their work and do what they do best.

If you are contemplating taking a class with Dr. Rozell next semester, you might be interested to know that he does play favorites. I next asked Dr. Rozell the most obvious question you can think to ask a professor:

The Stylus: What is your favorite class to teach?

Dr. Rozell:  My favorite class right now is a special topics seminar, “Religion and Public Policy.” I have especially enjoyed leading a seminar on “Media and Public Policy.” Naturally, like all faculty, I get the most charged up about teaching subjects directly related to my own research.

The Stylus: How do you view the professional environment at SPP?

Dr. Rozell: I’m fortunate to be surrounded by some really impressive colleagues. I like that Jeremy Mayer is a solid scholar, enthusiastic teacher, and he also keeps things light and real around here. I like people who are talented but don’t take themselves too seriously.

I am also thrilled watching some of the newer faculty here energize the place in different ways. Keep an eye on Mike Fauntroy; at a remarkably young age, he has soared to a very high level in the competitive world of political analysis. He puts his research out in the public in a way that teaches the broader community about the important findings of political science. Very few academics can do that.

This article was originally written in spring 2010.  Please check with SPP for the fall 2010 course schedule if you are interested in taking a class!

Anne Abbott,  Stylus Correspondent