BATESVILLE, Arkansas — Lyon College will host the 53rd annual meeting of the Arkansas Political Science Association on March 6-7, bringing together faculty, students and scholars from colleges and universities across the region for two days of academic presentations, panel discussions and keynote lectures.
Conference activities will begin Friday, March 6, with multiple academic sessions in the Lyon Business and Economics Building on the college’s campus in Batesville. Panels will feature undergraduate and graduate research in areas including political theory, public policy, international relations, American politics and civic engagement.
Dr. Brendan Connell, assistant professor of political science at Lyon College, said hosting the annual meeting highlights the college’s commitment to academic scholarship and undergraduate research.
“We are thrilled to host so many bright scholars across the region.,” Dr. Connell said. “This conference is not only an opportunity for people to share their research but also a chance for Lyon College’s undergraduates to gain experience and get a feel for what it’s like to be on the frontier of political science research.”
The conference will include a Friday evening reception and dinner at the Scottish Heritage Building, featuring keynote speaker Dr. David H. Bearce, professor and head of international affairs at Texas A&M University’s Bush School of Government and Public Service. Dr. Bearce’s research focuses on international political economy, foreign policy and global governance.
On Saturday, March 7, additional sessions will continue throughout the morning, followed by a keynote luncheon featuring James L. “Skip” Rutherford III, dean emeritus of the University of Arkansas Clinton School of Public Service and a member of the Lyon College Board of Trustees.
The annual meeting provides a platform for scholarly collaboration while offering students opportunities to present research, network with faculty and explore graduate study and career paths in political science and public service.
About Lyon College
Lyon College, a private, liberal arts institution founded in 1872, is the oldest college in the state with its original charter. Ranked by US News & World Report as a 2025 “Best College,” Lyon currently enrolls 781 students from more than 33 states and 14 countries. Students can tailor their education, selecting from 32 majors, as well as pre-professional, individualized options and select graduate programs. Learn more at lyon.edu.
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