Katherine Tate

Katherine Tate is a Professor of Political Science at Brown University, affiliated with the Watson Institute of International and Public Affairs. She holds a PhD in Political Science from the University of Michigan and a BA in Political Science from the University of Chicago with honors. Her work focuses on Black politics, race and ethnicity in politics, urban politics, gender and politics, public opinion, and legislative studies.

• Education:
  • PhD in Political Science, University of Michigan
  • BA in Political Science (Honors), University of Chicago

Her research examines the intersection of race, gender, and governance, with notable contributions on descriptive representation, Black political empowerment, and legislative behavior. Key publications include the award-winning Black Faces in the Mirror and Gendered Pluralism (co-authored, 2023). She has received the 2023 Barbara Sinclair Legacy Award for lifetime contributions to legislative politics research.

Tate has served on selection committees for prestigious awards, including chairing the 2024 Barbara Sinclair Legacy Award committee. Her work bridges academic inquiry with real-world policy impacts, addressing issues like voting rights, electoral mechanisms, and minority political representation. She is currently on leave during the 2024-25 academic year.