It goes without saying that Dr. Gies is one of the most admired and beloved teachers in the Political Science department at Portland State University. We have the unique privilege of having one of the most exceptional political science faculties in the nation (I might be biased, but I don't think I'm too far off). The exceptional knowledge, care, and dedication of the staff and faculty of the College of Urban and Public Affairs (CUPA) at PSU make this program a true dream to be a part of. Three years ago, CUPA acquired Dr. Nathan Gies to temporarily fill in as the professor of the political theory classes. For the past three years, Dr. Gies has shown, above and beyond, his unique gift for engaging students in the concepts of political theory. 

The discipline of political science consists of four subfields: American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and political theory. NEVER has this department had to contemplate the collapse of an entire subfield within our academic studies. This position has always been a tenure-line position within the department. The classes taught under this position are REQUIRED political science courses at the graduate and undergraduate levels, including the honors and pathways programs. Additionally, the position covers REQUIRED courses in two interdisciplinary programs, the Master of Public Policy and the Ph.D. in Public Affairs and Policy. Again, REQUIRED courses.

On top of that, Dr. Gies has also taught a variety of elective courses in these programs as well as within the Law and Legal Studies program and advises and oversees a substantial number of Masters and Ph.D. students. 

Eliminating Dr. Gies' position would not only diminish our academic community, deprive students of an invaluable mentor and educator who has consistently gone above and beyond to support us, but also force curricular changes in every one of these programs and crush the department's ability to fully support its graduate and undergraduate students interested in political theory. His expertise in political theory is unmatched, making him an irreplaceable asset to our department.

Please join me in urging Portland State University to save Dr. Gies' position for current and future students by signing this petition!