Colleen Coleman-

This week’s Gustie of the Week is Dr. Chris Gilbert, Professor of Political Science. Well known for his kind spirit and exam day brownies, Gilbert serves as the faculty chair for the Political Science department, advising for Social Studies Education majors and the Gustavus Game Club. Outside of Gustavus, he spends his summer golfing and reading, always rooting for the Philadelphia Eagles, and traveling with his wife Julie Gilbert, fellow Gustavus library faculty, and their two teenage boys.

Originally drawn to Gustavus for its small liberal arts atmosphere, Gilbert stayed despite the bitterly cold weather during his interview in February. Now in his 34th academic year at Gustavus, Gilbert loves the community he has seen throughout his time; especially now having students whose parents also took a class with him. Junior Political Science major Will Sarkinen states that Gilbert is one of the most friendly, approachable, and passionate professors he’s had on campus. “Without Chris in the political science department, it would not be the same. I’ve taken classes with him 5 semesters in a row now and he is a huge reason that I will have such fond memories of the political science department that I will take with me following my graduation,” Sarkinen said.

Gilbert was drawn to the field of political science after taking his first class in it the summer after his sophomore year in undergrad, saying that was the first moment everything clicked. “A couple summers before that I worked as a counselor at a basketball camp and learned – somewhat to my surprise – that I was good at explaining things to people, and liked it!” Gilbert said. His graduate research brought him towards teaching, and the rest is history. Junior Political Science major Margo Brettin states that Gilbert has been one of the most kind and helpful professors she’s ever had. “When I first declared my political science major I was really worried about if I’d made the right choice, but taking classes with Chris has really helped me to see that this is my path and he’s also been the best stand-in advisor a girl could ask for,” Brettin said.

One of his favorite classes to teach currently is U.S. Constitutional Law and a U.S. State and Local Policies Challenge Seminar. “So much of what affects Americans happens through state and local government and it’s rewarding to help students see these connections and why they matter,” Gilbert said. “Chris is an outstanding professor who puts his students first and ensures they understand material,” Senior Political Science major Kaylee Bosma said. “From brownies celebrating Exam or Paper days to fun facts about states in U.S. State/Local Politics to starting Constitutional Law with a gavel, Chris’ passion for teaching political science and his students shines through his words and action,” Bosma said.

At Gustavus, Gilbert is proud of the work the Political Science department has done. “Of course I’m biased in thinking this, but the Political Science Department has a fantastic lineup of faculty teaching a range of fascinating and timely courses, and I am proud to have been involved in hiring every one of my current colleagues,” Gilbert said. He also enjoys playing a role in the Education department and supporting future educators. Despite years of research and projects, Gilbert states that his colleagues would probably say the most important thing he’s ever done is having gotten the department a good refrigerator. 

Among students, Gilbert is well known for his engaging classes and positive energy. “Chris is my favorite professor at Gustavus because his classes are engaging and you can really tell he cares about his students,” Junior Political Science major Linnea Beckstrom said. “I love how he brings brownies into class when we have tests –that exemplifies the kind of professor he is,” Beckstrom said. Junior Political Science major Kennedy Hurd states that she always looks forward to Gilbert classes. “It’s honestly hard to narrow down a favorite memory because I find myself laughing so often. This ability to keep a lighthearted atmosphere really translates into student success as the balance between humor and lecture keeps us engaged throughout the class session,” Hurd said.

While his impact on campus goes beyond refrigerators and exam day brownies, Political Science Professor Dr. Chris Gilbert showcases what it means to be a Gustie: passionate, engaging, and kind. Students love him for his witty one-liners, politics trivia and fun facts, and excitement about his work.