Jody Neathery-Castro

Jody Neathery-Castro is an Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science within the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO). She teaches a wide range of undergraduate and graduate courses, including Introduction to Political Science, Comparative Politics, Gender and Global Politics, Politics in Western Europe, Politics in France, and Politics and Film. Her academic work bridges research and pedagogy, with a strong commitment to civic engagement and service-learning.

Her research centers on French politics, the politics and economics of culture, governmental responses to cultural politics, and the global role of the French language, particularly within the international organization La Francophonie. She also actively contributes to the scholarship of teaching and learning, focusing on innovative pedagogical methods such as service-learning, especially in first-year courses aimed at fostering civic engagement.

The recent publications and research interests of Dr. Neathery-Castro reflect a dual focus: one on the political dynamics of culture and language in France and the Francophone world, and another on effective teaching practices in political science education. Her work appears in journals such as Social Science Quarterly, Québec Studies, The French Review, Academic Exchange Quarterly, and Metropolitan Universities, indicating interdisciplinary engagement across political science, cultural studies, and higher education research.

Scientific Awards and Honors:

• College of Arts and Sciences Excellence in Service Award (2011)
• College of Arts and Sciences Excellence in Teaching Award (2007)
• Omicron Delta Kappa member (2007)
• UNO Excellence in Teaching Award (2007)
• Outstanding Faculty in Service Learning Award (2001)

Dr. Neathery-Castro has demonstrated sustained excellence in both teaching and service. She has advised numerous students and contributed significantly to curriculum development, particularly in integrating service-learning into political science education. While specific grant details are not mentioned, her award-winning work in service-learning suggests active involvement in educational innovation and community partnerships. She continues to publish and teach, remaining an engaged and influential faculty member at UNO.