Elizabeth I. Dorssom, MPA, PhD 

Assistant Professor of Political Science

Lincoln University, Jefferson City, Missouri

I am an Assistant Professor of Political Science at Lincoln University of Missouri.

My research focuses on the impact of resources on politics and policy. Specifically, I am interested in understanding how resources such as information, institutionalization, and professionalism impact policy adoption and feedback.  I'm exploring the influence of such resources at the Congressional and state legislative levels by examining legislative position-taking as well as legislative outputs such as sunset provisions. Understanding these aspects of the legislative process will help us become better informed about which of these legislative processes work and, therefore, promote quality government. 

I have published several articles and book chapters, including in Social Science Quarterly  and  Political Science Educator. My research has been featured in 3 Streams Blog, Political Science Today, and The Academic Minute.   To learn more about my research agenda,  visit the "Research" section of my website.

I have a strong passion for teaching and have earned multiple teaching awards.  I regularly teach courses on American National Government, and American State and Local Government. I also have experience teaching Introduction to Public Policy, Party Politics, American Executive and Congress, American Political Behavior, Current Political Events, and Women and Politics. Visit the "Teaching" section of my website to learn more about my teaching awards and experience.


I am an advocate for first-generation and underrepresented students. Visit the "Student Resources" section for academic success guides as well as links to  graduate school and research resources.

I earned a B.A. in Women's Studies from Chatham University and a Master of Public Administration in Public Sector Management and Leadership from California State University-Northridge.   I earned my Political Science Ph.D. from the Harry S Truman School of Government and Public Affairs at the University of MissouriI am a former Oskar Morgenstern Fellow through the Mercatus Center at George Mason University and a former Dan Searle Fellow through the Institute for Humane Studies at George Mason University  


Email: dorssome [at] lincolnu [dot] edu 

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