Michael Bitzer

Dr. Michael Bitzer is a Professor of Politics and History at Catawba College and currently serves as Department Chair. He holds the T.P. and J.C. Leonard Chair of Political Science. His teaching focuses on American politics, public administration, and judicial processes. Research interests include Southern politics, North Carolina politics, electoral systems, and judicial politics. Dr. Bitzer authored Redistricting and Gerrymandering in North Carolina (2021), exploring four decades of partisan redistricting battles. He also contributed to works on Southern politics and The Simpsons' political themes, earning the 2009 Cawelti Award. A sought-after media commentator, he has appeared on major networks and international outlets. Prior to academia, he worked as a journalist and earned teaching awards including the Swink Professorship for Excellence in Teaching (2011-12).

Education:

• B.A. in English, Erskine College
• M.A. in History (Modern American, Southern Political History, Nazi Germany), Clemson University
• Ph.D. in Public and International Affairs, University of Georgia

Research trends emphasize North Carolina electoral dynamics, redistricting litigation, and Southern political evolution. His blog Old North State Politics analyzes current events. Beyond academia, he enjoys ACC/SEC sports, trout fishing, and photography of Western North Carolina landscapes.

Awards & Honors:

• Cawelti Award for Best Textbook/Primer (2009)
• Swink Professor for Excellence in Teaching (2011-12)
• University of Georgia Excellence in Teaching Award (doctoral student)

Advising & Leadership:

• Pre-Law Advisor at Catawba College
• Department Chair since 2011

Dr. Bitzer advocates challenging students to engage with complex perspectives through Socratic questioning, emphasizing the value of liberal arts education.

Public Engagement: Maintains active media presence through interviews and commentary on North Carolina and U.S. political issues.