Lawrence Nitz

Lawrence Nitz is a Professor in the Department of Political Science within the College of Social Sciences at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. He has been deeply engaged in the legislative process for over thirty years, with a focus on public policy, American politics, and community engagement, particularly through the Hawaiʻi Legislative Internship program.

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Political Science (Minor in Psychology), Michigan State University, 1969
• MA in Political Science, Michigan State University, 1965
• AB in Political Science, University of Michigan, 1963

Nitz's research centers on the legislative process and public policy design, especially long-term care financing and social insurance programs for aging individuals with disabilities. His work aims to provide financial protection for vulnerable populations, with a focus on Hawaiʻi residents. He has contributed to multiple policy proposals and has been closely involved in bill-drafting and committee processes.

His teaching includes foundational courses such as Introduction to American Politics (POLS 130), American Politics (POLS 385), Political Inquiry and Analysis (POLS 390), and various internship seminars (POLS 402, POLS 403, POLS 405, POLS 408). These courses reflect his commitment to experiential learning and civic engagement.

Nitz has been recognized for his applied contributions, receiving the CSS Excellence in Application Award in 2017.

He has advised and supervised numerous students through the Hawaiʻi Legislative Internship program, which he helped expand a decade ago to include full-time internships in Washington, D.C. congressional offices. He continues to lead this initiative, demonstrating sustained commitment to student development and policy engagement.

He maintains strong ties with legislative and community institutions in Hawaiʻi and continues to work on financial protection mechanisms for the elderly and disabled.