Adrienne Gathman

Adrienne Gathman serves as Assistant Professor of Political Science and Pre-Law Advisor at Simpson College within the Department of Political Science, Sociology, and Criminal Justice. Her academic appointments reflect dual expertise in political science and legal education.

Her educational background includes:

• B.A. in Political Science and Criminal Justice, Simpson College (2011)
• J.D. with certificates in Food and Agricultural Law and Constitutional Law and Civil Rights, Drake University Law School (2014)
• M.A. in Political Science, University of Texas at Dallas (2016)
• Ph.D. in Political Science, University of Texas at Dallas (2019)

Her research centers on institutional dynamics across governmental levels, with rigorous focus on executive branch operations under divided government conditions. This specialization bridges constitutional law frameworks with practical political science analysis, evident in her active membership with the American Political Science Association and Midwest Political Science Association.

Her teaching methodology emphasizes accessibility through innovative applications like Disney villain presidential caucuses and judicial opinion competitions.

Award recognition includes:

• Distinguished Junior Faculty Award, Simpson College (2023)
• Best Dissertation Award, University of Texas at Dallas (2020)
• Marianne C. Stewart Teaching Excellence Award, University of Texas at Dallas (2018)

As Pre-Law Advisor, she provides cross-campus guidance while developing pedagogical resources that transform complex legal-political concepts into engaging learning experiences for diverse student populations.