Joe Ura appointed chair of the Clemson Department of Political Science

The Clemson University Department of Political Science begins a new chapter this fall, as leadership passes from Jeffrey Peake to Joe Ura. 

Ura, who will join Clemson from Texas A&M University, said he is excited to be a part the political science department and its dynamic group of faculty, staff and students when his term as chair begins this summer.  

“Clemson’s political science department is a leader in research and teaching at the University and beyond,” said Ura. “It is a privilege to join this wonderful community of scholars and students, and I am excited about working with my new colleagues to build on the department’s successes.” 

A self-proclaimed lifelong learner, Ura credits his love for school, history and politics to teachers and professors throughout his life who encouraged his curiosity and supported his academic interests. As chair, he plans to prioritize the student experience so that all political science students feel empowered to contribute to their communities, pursue their passion and enter the workforce after graduation. Additionally, he plans to expand the department’s graduate programs and foster a culture of high-quality graduate education that equips students for careers in academia, public service and the private sector. 

According to Leslie Hossfeld, dean of the Clemson University College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences, Ura’s expertise and vision for the future make him an excellent fit for the role of department chair. 

“I am delighted Dr. Ura is joining Clemson in this leadership role,” said Hossfeld. “He understands the College’s mission to build people and communities through research, teaching and service. I am confident he will find new and innovative ways for the political science department to advance the R1 standing of the University and make a positive impact on individuals and communities throughout our state, nation and world.”

Ura earned a Ph.D. in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and both a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in political science from George Washington University. He has served as director of undergraduate programs, associate department chair and director of the American Politics Program during his time at Texas A&M University. Ura is currently completing an appointment at Texas A&M’s international branch campus in Doha, Qatar where he was previously chair of the Liberal Arts Program.

His primary area of research investigates American national politics – specifically, how the United States Supreme Court interacts with public opinion, how and why public opinion changes over time and how public opinion impacts policies and elections. 

The Department of Political Science is part of the College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences, a 21st-century land-grant college joining together a unique combination of schools and departments: Communication, Nursing, Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management, Political Science, Psychology, Public Health Sciences and Sociology, Anthropology and Criminal Justice. These areas have distinctive characteristics and missions – all joined together by a common thread of service to people and communities.