Richard Elgar

Richard Elgar is an Assistant Professor (Career Track) in the Department of Political Science at Washington State University (WSU) and serves as Assistant Director of the Thomas Foley Institute. He also leads the Pacific Northwest Political Science Association as Executive Director. Elgar holds a Ph.D. and M.A. in Political Science from WSU, alongside a B.A. (Honors) in English from the University of Ulster. His research focuses on Latin American politics, gender, inequality, and global political dynamics. He has co-authored influential works on Washington State governance, Latin American feminist movements, and the interplay of civility in democratic systems. His publications include contributions to Governing the Evergreen State (2018) and Civility and Democracy in America (2012). Elgar’s career spans roles as an administrator, educator, and advocate across three continents, with a focus on bridging academic research and practical policy engagement.