BUFFALO, NY - The Canisius University Alumni Association conferred its Kenneth L. Koessler Distinguished Faculty Award upon Michael V. Haselswerdt, PhD, during Spring Honors Convocation. The award, presented annually, recognizes a faculty member for teaching excellence and outstanding contributions to the academic world.
A professor of political science, Haselswerdt’s unique approach to teaching combines academic rigor with hands-on experiences and real-world insight from political consultants and candidates. Students attend regional political association meetings and model Congress conferences. Haselswerdt also hosts an annual trip to Washington, D.C., during which undergraduates meet one-on-one with alumni who work in the areas of government and politics.
A valued contributor to the life of the college, Haselswerdt brought continuity, distinction and vision to the Fitzpatrick Institute for Public Affairs, when he refashioned the popular lecture series to include more student-centered components and involve larger segments of the Canisius community. His active research in the areas of surveys, voting behavior and straight-ticket versus split-ticket voting make him the go-to political analyst for several print and broadcast media outlets.
Haselswerdt holds an undergraduate degree from the University of California at Davis and a doctorate degree from Michigan State University. He began teaching at Canisius University in 1974.
