Kouslaa Kessler-Mata

Kouslaa Kessler-Mata is an Associate Professor at the University of San Francisco's Department of Political Science. She has taught at USF since 2007 and holds a PhD in Political Science from the University of Chicago, alongside a BA in American Studies from San Francisco State University. Her research focuses on self-determination, Indigenous sovereignty, and federalism, particularly in the context of tribal governance challenges.

Education:

• PhD in Political Science, University of Chicago
• BA in American Studies with a minor in American Indian Studies, San Francisco State University

Research interests include the complexities of Indigenous sovereignty and tribal-state-federal relations. Her book American Indians and the Trouble with Sovereignty (2017) critically examines governance challenges faced by tribal nations. She teaches courses on public administration, political theory, and American Indian politics.

Awards:

• USF Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership Award (2023)

Professional roles include serving on the Governor’s California Truth and Healing Council, the American Indian Education Oversight Committee (California Department of Education), and as Secretary/Treasurer for the California Indian Museum and Cultural Center’s Board of Directors. She previously worked with California Indian Legal Services and the National Congress of American Indians.

Her work bridges academia and policy, focusing on Indigenous rights and educational equity through participatory research and community engagement.