The George Washington University’s College of Professional Studies announced today that former U.S. Representative Debbie Mucarsel-Powell has been appointed Executive Director of the Graduate School of Political Management (GSPM), effective Sept.1, 2025. In this role, she will provide strategic leadership for the nation’s first and foremost school dedicated to applied politics, ensuring that GSPM remains at the forefront of preparing students for careers in politics, advocacy, communications, and public affairs.
She will also serve as faculty director for the master’s degree program in political management, the school’s flagship academic offering. In this capacity, she will shape the academic vision of the program, guide curriculum development to reflect the latest trends and challenges in the political arena, and foster deeper connections between students, faculty, and practitioners. Her leadership will strengthen the program’s reputation for blending rigorous academic training with hands-on professional experience, equipping graduates to lead with integrity, effectiveness, and impact in political life.
Mucarsel-Powell, the first Ecuadorian-American and first South American–born immigrant elected to the U.S. Congress, represented Florida’s 26th District from 2019 to 2021. She subsequently served as a senior advisor to Giffords, leading national efforts to advance gun violence prevention and was appointed Special Advisor to the President for the 2022 Summit of the Americas.
In addition to her service in Congress and the executive branch, Mucarsel-Powell brings a distinguished record of leadership in higher education, having served in a senior administrative role at Florida International University for more than a decade. Her extensive experience in academic leadership, program development, and student engagement was a significant factor in her selection.
She also has a proven track record as a highly successful fundraiser, having led multimillion-dollar philanthropic campaigns that expanded access to education and strengthened institutional impact.
Mucarsel-Powell is multilingual, holding a Masters in International Political Economy from Claremont Graduate University and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Pitzer College.
“Debbie Mucarsel-Powell brings an extraordinary combination of lived experience, political leadership, and commitment to public service,” said Dean Liesl Riddle. “Her story resonates deeply with our mission to prepare the next generation of changemakers, and we are thrilled to welcome her to GSPM.”
Matthew Dallek, professor of political management and chair of the search committee, added, “Debbie embodies the values of GSPM: practical expertise, integrity, and a dedication to democratic engagement.”
Reflecting on her new role, Mucarsel-Powell said: “I am incredibly excited and honored to join the Graduate School of Political Management at this pivotal moment. GSPM’s mission to prepare ethical, strategic leaders for public service has never been more vital. I look forward to working with our students, faculty, and partners to ensure we are shaping the next generation of changemakers who will strengthen our institutions and lead with integrity, courage and empathy.”
With her appointment, the Graduate School of Political Management continues its tradition of attracting distinguished leaders to guide its students and shape the future of political engagement. Under Mucarsel-Powell’s leadership, GSPM is poised to further strengthen its role as the nation’s premier school for applied politics, preparing graduates to navigate today’s complex challenges and lead with vision and purpose.
#####