Edward Steinfeld, a professor of China studies, political science and international and public affairs, will end his term as director of the Watson Institute for International and Public Affairs on June 30, according to a Monday letter from University Provost Francis Doyle. Wendy Schiller, a professor of political science, will begin as interim director on July 1.
Steinfeld began his directorship in 2016. During his term, the Watson Institute saw significant growth, including the launch of its International and Public Affairs undergraduate concentration, Doyle highlighted in his letter. He also noted how Steinfeld oversaw the creation of Stephen Robert ’62 Hall — colloquially known as New Watson.
Steinfeld also led initiatives to create a School of International and Public Affairs during his time as director. These have included a “$1 million investment in three new policy labs” and the Master of Public Affairs Policy Equity Scholars program that looks to promote diversity in public policy, Doyle wrote.
Schiller is the director of the Taubman Center for American Politics and Policy and has previously served as chair of the political science department. She first came to Brown in 1994 and studies gender and representation in politics.
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