Arizona Christian University
Tracy Munsil
Dr. Tracy F. Munsil comes to ACU as an associate professor of political science after earning her doctorate from Arizona State University in August 2011. While completing her doctorate, Munsil served as a full-time lecturer in the ASU School of Politics and Global Studies. Her doctorate was her third degree from ASU, where she also earned a bachelor of science in journalism and a master’s in political science.
Munsil is not new to the ACU community. She was an adjunct professor when ACU was still Southwestern College and taught political science courses as general education electives. Starting with those courses, Munsil envisioned developing a program in political science that integrated the highest scholarly standards with a biblical worldview understanding of politics. As to her vision for the political science program, Munsil replies:
“We’re at a unique time in our nation’s history. Today’s college students are more politically engaged and more interested in politics than at any time in recent history. I want ACU students who share this passion for political engagement to have all they need for significant Christian influence, whether in political leadership, public service, or effective citizenship. Not only will students study the political ideas and institutions that so powerfully shape their world, they will integrate into their studies a deep understanding of the role of faith in politics, and an appreciation of the uniqueness of the American system of government. By integrating faith and knowledge, ACU political science graduates will transform their passion for politics into significant influence in their communities, their nation, and the world.”
Munsil grew up in a small town in Wisconsin (Eagle River – then population 1,300). She came to Arizona to pursue her undergraduate studies in journalism at ASU. There she met her husband, current ACU President Len Munsil, while they both worked at the campus newspaper, the State Press. They have eight children (ages 24 to 15), whom she home-educated for 14 years. She has been a professional writer for more than 25 years and loves to work with students to improve their writing. Munsil has a passion for political ideas – especially their appeal and consequences for human life. Her favorite historical periods for study are those charged with debates over ideas, particularly the American Founding and the 20th Century, which gave rise to fascism, Communism, and the Cold War. Outside the classroom, Munsil enjoys cheering for her kids in their many sporting events, collecting and reading books, photography, politics, and going to movies.
Associate Professor, Political Science; Ph.D., Arizona State University, 2011; M.A., Political Science, Arizona State University, 1989; B.S., Journalism, Arizona State University, 1983.