Leah Seppanen Anderson

Dr. Leah Seppanen Anderson is well-respected in the field of political science and currently serves as the Executive Director of the SNF Paideia Program at the University of Pennsylvania. Her leadership in this role is marked by a commitment to integrating civic engagement and public service into the academic experience, fostering a holistic approach to education that prepares students for active citizenship. Before joining the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Anderson was the associate director of the Program for Community-Engaged Scholarship at Princeton University. In this capacity, she played a pivotal role in bridging academic scholarship with community involvement, enhancing the educational experience through practical, real-world applications. Dr. Anderson's academic journey began with a Ph.D. in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Her scholarly pursuits have been complemented by a robust teaching career at Wheaton College, where she spent 14 years as an associate and assistant professor of politics and international relations. During her tenure, she was known for her engaging teaching style and dedication to student development, inspiring many to pursue careers in public service and academia. Throughout her career, Dr. Anderson has been dedicated to advancing the field of political science through both her administrative roles and her contributions to education. Her work continues to impact students and colleagues alike, as she remains a passionate advocate for the integration of academic knowledge with societal needs.