Leading political scholar coming to ETSU
One of the leading scholars in American politics – and of the most prominent experts in the field of political interest groups – will hold a series of engaging events on the campus of East Tennessee State University.
Dr. Anthony J. Nownes holds the Wayne G. Basler Chair of Excellence for the Integration of the Arts, Rhetoric and Science for the spring 2025 semester at East Tennessee State University.
The Basler Chair, established in the 1990s, is a prestigious university post designed to bring distinguished scholars to ETSU, enriching both the academic and local community through lectures, workshops and innovative ideas.
Nownes, a professor at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, holds a Ph.D. from the University of Kansas. His groundbreaking research focuses on the role of interest groups in American politics, and his 2006 book, “Total Lobbying: What Lobbyists Want (and How They Try to Get It)” remains an authoritative text in the field.
“Dr. Nownes’ expertise in interest group politics and his ability to translate complex political dynamics into accessible insights make him a tremendous asset for our students and the community,” said Dr. Colin R. Glennon, professor and chair of the Department of Political Science, International Affairs and Public Administration at ETSU. “We are thrilled to welcome such a respected scholar as the 2025 Basler Chair.”
Upcoming events
Nownes will present a series of engaging lectures that explore some of the most pressing questions in American politics today. Each event is free and open to the public.
- Monday, Feb. 17, at 7 p.m. in Brown Hall, 261: “Reflections from the 2024 Election”
- Friday, March 7, at 3 p.m. in the D.P. Culp Student Center Forum: “Where Does All the Money Come From? Campaign Finance in the USA and Why It Matters”
- Monday, March 31, at 7 p.m. in Rogers-Stout Hall, 102: “Are Interest Groups Good or Bad?”
- Tuesday, April 22, at 4 p.m. in Ball Hall, 127: “Do Celebrities Matter in American Politics? The Impact of Celebrity Endorsements in Elections”
The Basler Chair lectures provide a unique opportunity for students, faculty and members of the public to engage with cutting-edge scholarship and gain a deeper understanding of critical issues.
East Tennessee State University was founded in 1911 with a singular mission: to improve the quality of life for people in the region and beyond. Through its world-class health sciences programs and interprofessional approach to health care education, ETSU is a highly respected leader in rural health research and practices. The university also boasts nationally ranked programs in the arts, technology, computing, and media studies. ETSU serves approximately 14,000 students each year and is ranked among the top 10 percent of colleges in the nation for students graduating with the least amount of debt.
Stay in Touch
Follow ETSU on Social