The Political Science Department celebrated its graduating Class of 2025 and this year’s Pi Sigma Alpha inductees with a spring reception at the Fawcett Center on May 3. Family, friends, faculty, and advisors gathered to recognize the accomplishments, dedication, and academic excellence of the department’s outstanding students.

The evening featured a keynote address from alumnus Bill Byers, recipient of this year’s Distinguished Alumni Award. Byers currently serves as principal of Byers, Minton & Associates, a firm specializing in legislative and executive branch lobbying, regulatory representation, and compliance services. He reflected on his journey from undergraduate Political Science student at Ohio State to a career in government relations, encouraging graduates to remain curious, open to different perspectives, and committed to connecting and collaborating a meaningful impact through public service.

The reception also included recognition of students who received departmental awards for academic excellence, best paper, outstanding thesis, and for graduating with Honors and Research Distinction. A complete list of 2025 award recipients can be found here. 

In a special moment of recognition, Pi Sigma Alpha presented its inaugural Professor of the Year Award to Professor Vladimir Kogan, honoring his dedication to teaching and mentorship.

Guests enjoyed light refreshments as graduates reconnected with faculty and posed for photos with family and friends. The department extends its heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2025 and wishes them continued success as they pursue careers in law, policy, public service, and beyond, or continue their education.