Matt Grossmann, a nationally known political scientist and associate professor at Michigan State University, will become the next director of MSU’s Institute for Public Policy and Social Research.
Grossmann will take the reins from the retiring Douglas Roberts on Jan. 1.
IPPSR connects scholars, legislators and policymakers through applied research, policy forums and political leadership training. The nonpartisan institute also provides survey research services for public and private organizations through its Office for Survey Research and State of the State Survey.
“I hope to build on IPPSR's success in political leadership training and survey research while enhancing its research capacity and campus profile,” said Grossmann. “The institute serves as a critical link between the university and state government and has the chance to improve state governance through civic education and evidence-based policymaking.
Grossmann is the author of the books “The Not-So-Special Interests: Interest Groups, Public Representation and American Governance” and “Artists of the Possible: Governing Networks and American Policy Change Since 1945.” He has written opinion pieces and blog posts for The Washington Post. His current research on political parties has been publicized in outlets such as the Chicago Tribune, Vox and Slate.
In 2008, Grossmann developed and launched the Michigan Policy Network, an online public-service program that serves as an outlet for MSU undergraduate and graduate students to research and report on state policy issues.
Roberts has headed IPPSR since 2003. Prior to that he served more than 28 years in Michigan government, including 10 years as state treasurer, a position appointed by the governor.
At IPPSR, Roberts established close ties with members of Michigan’s House, Senate and executive offices. He encouraged graduates of the institute’s Michigan Political Leadership Program to run for statewide offices; almost half of MPLP’s graduates have served or are serving in elected or appointed offices.
Roberts, who has doctorate and master’s degrees in economics from Michigan State, showcased MSU research during IPPSR’s annual Public Policy Forum series and joined with Canadian Studies and other institutes and units across the campus to host speakers and forums. His key goals have been to help IPPSR grow its strengths in leadership training, survey research and hosting influential events.
“Doug Roberts has had an extraordinary impact at IPPSR and at Michigan State,” said MSU President Lou Anna K. Simon. “We wish him all the best in retirement.”