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Maxwell Perspective - Your online companion to the Maxwell School magazine

Examining ‘Always Fragile’ Democracy


Amid reports of democracy’s global decline, faculty and students are gathering new insights into perception, polarization and other pressing concerns.

A person holding the fall 2024 issue of Perspective magazine.
In this issue: Amid recent reports of democracy’s global decline, several Maxwell faculty members and students are involved in research projects seeking to better understand the causes and what’s at stake.
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In this issue: The Maxwell School celebrates its 100th anniversary with stories about milestones, torchbearers and its enduring commitment to prepare engaged citizens for an increasingly interconnected world. 

Fall 2023 Magazine cover

In this issue: Read about the experiences of students and alumni from Ukraine and efforts by Maxwell scholars to support their embattled country; plans to celebrate the School’s 100th anniversary in 2024; and a professor’s remarkable discovery—what’s believed to be the first English outpost in Africa.

Maxwell Perspective Spring 2023 Cover of girl with light streaks

In this issue: Learn how Maxwell scholars are addressing the rapid rise of AI and autonomous systems by gathering critical data, designing policy and informing future leaders; an all-star panel convenes in Los Angeles to the 'intersection of entertainment and democracy'; and University Professor Sean O'Keefe '78 M.P.A. reflects on leading NASA through the Columbia shuttle tragedy.

Maxwell Perspective Fall 2022 Cover

In this issue: Read about the school‘s vast connections in Washington, D.C., including the new Institute for Democracy, Journalism and Citizenship; Congresswoman Cheney discusses the January 6 insurrection; policy studies celebrates 45 years of “doing good;” and more.

2022 Summer Maxwell Perspective cover

In this issue: Alumni and faculty reflect on their role preserving Harriet Tubman's legacy; an alumni couple's gift inspires an initiative to close the achievement gap in schools; Mike Tirico ’88 reflects on his most challenging assignment; Chilean president travels coach—right next to a Maxwell student; Jared Kraham '13 elected Binghamton's youngest mayor.

In this issue: Alumni wonder whether their work in Afghanistan will endure when U.S. troops leave; faculty research on the effects of COVID-19 is shaping public policy and perception; honoring one of Maxwell's most generous supporters, Maxwell School alumnus Joseph Strasser.

Woman standing next to bags

In this issue: Maxwell School Advisory Board members share their expertise and experiences; Maxwell reflects on its connections to the World Food Programme and the legacy of one of its former leaders, Catherine Bertini; Geography professor Mark Monmonier retires after nearly 50 years with Maxwell. 


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Why I Give


“My hope is that young women from diverse backgrounds with fewer resources will be among the beneficiaries of this endowment, allowing them to pursue their love of public service.”
—Louise Gartner Birkhead ’52 M.P.A.


Maxwell Perspective
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