Melinda R. Tarsi-Goldfien

Dr. Melinda R. Tarsi-Goldfien serves as Professor of Political Science at Bridgewater State University's College of Humanities and Social Sciences, holding the Bartlett Endowed Professorship for Civic Education and Engagement while chairing the Master of Public Administration (MPA) program.

Her academic credentials include:

• BA from Western Connecticut State University
• MA from University of Massachusetts Amherst
• PhD from University of Massachusetts Amherst

Specializing in American politics, Dr. Tarsi-Goldfien's research examines public opinion dynamics, municipal governance structures, and fiscal administration in local government. Her scholarly work bridges theoretical frameworks with practical policy applications, evidenced by publications in Journalism Practice, Armed Forces and Society, Politics Groups and Identities, Social Science Quarterly, and the Journal of Race Ethnicity and Politics. Media outlets including Salon.com, Bloomberg.com, and the Washington Post's 'The Monkey Cage' have featured her research insights.

Her distinguished teaching earned the 2018 Presidential Award for Distinguished Teaching. Professional service extends through:

• Member of her town's finance committee
• President of the Association of Town Finance Committees for Massachusetts
• Executive Board Member of the MA Municipal Association
• Member of the Local Government Advisory Council for Massachusetts
• Co-editor of the Finance Committee Handbook

Dr. Tarsi-Goldfien integrates academic scholarship with hands-on civic engagement, creating meaningful connections between classroom theory and real-world governance challenges across Massachusetts communities.