The Lander College Political Science Club was established in fall 2010 to provide students interested in politics and political issues the opportunity to expand their knowledge and experience beyond the classroom through a broad range of extracurricular activities. Students have the ability to participate in stimulating events on campus, off-campus trips, and write articles for an annual Political Science Journal. Through these programs, the Club serves as a forum for students to discuss these issues and to enhance their classroom experience.
Since its inception, the Club has hosted a diverse group of speakers who addressed contemporary local, national and international issues. Hila Elroy, advisor to the Consul General of Israel, addressed Israeli policy and anti-Israel sentiment on college campuses. City Councilman David Greenfield, an alumnus of our school, addressed the broad range of issues affecting the New York Jewish community and the need for effective participation. Local defense attorney David Storobin (currently running for State Senate) discussed the legal profession and the ethical issues involved with representing people accused of crimes. Most recently, students had the opportunity to discuss the "Arab Spring" with Ambassador Youssef Zada ,the current Consul General of Egypt.
In spring 2011, the Club took a two day trip to Washington D.C. where members enjoyed the opportunity to witness oral arguments at the United States Supreme Court, tour Congress with Congresswoman Yvette Clark, and see the sights. In fall 2011 members visited the Ground Zero memorial, the Federal Reserve, Federal Hall, and the Federal Courthouse where they toured the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, interviewed U.S. Attorney Elie Honig, and sat in on the federal trial of Victor Bout, otherwise known as "The Merchant of Death" (played by Nicholas Cage in "Lord of War").
In summer 2011 the Club published the first edition of its political science journal, which dealt with political issues surrounding Israel. The next edition is scheduled to be published in summer 2012 with a focus on the United States.