Staff Writer- Amelia Dewberry
Soren Sackreiter
This week’s Gustie of the Week is Professor of Political Science, African Studies, and LALACS, and Co-director of Peace Studies, Mimi Gerstbauer. Dr. Gerstbauer teaches a variety of classes related to international relations, Latin American politics, and peace studies.
Dr. Gerstbauer first studied Political Science at Wheaton College in Illinois, where she had a formative study away experience in Nicaragua involving an internship, research, and cultural immersion. After college, she spent a year as a domestic peace corps volunteer in a Puerto Rican neighborhood of Chicago. She completed her graduate work at the University of Notre Dame in both Peace Studies and Government.
“I was never actually interested in Political Science per se. I was always drawn to humanitarian issues such as poverty, war and violence, [and] human rights violations. Of course, those are political. But I did my dissertation on non-governmental organizations!” Dr. Gerstbauer explained.
Dr. Gerstbauer applied to teach Political Science at Gustavus because of the opportunity to also contribute to Peace Studies. She appreciates the freedom to pursue her interests at Gustavus.
“I value the liberal arts and a well-rounded education–most interesting questions are interdisciplinary!” Gerstbauer said, “and I value the integration of faith and learning at Gustavus. I’ve spent my whole life at institutions that are part of a Christian faith tradition.”
Dr. Gerstbauer is widely recognized on campus for her contributions to study away experiences.
“She bravely takes students abroad to learn about how communities who have experienced violence and trauma seek to build peace and heal,” Assistant Professor in Geography and Peace & Conflict Studies Tiffany Grobelski said.
Most recently, she led a 2025 May Away trip called Community Peacebuilding in Peru.
Senior Ally Brodin said she “absolutely loved traveling to Peru with her” because Dr. Gerstbauer “always wanted to keep students engaged, inviting them along for any side-quest she went on.” Brodin’s favorite memories of the trip include going on a walking tour of Cusco and eating at a restaurant overlooking ancient ruins in Lima with Dr. Gerstbauer.
Junior Maren Masters appreciated that Dr. Gerstbauer was “learning alongside us and keeping the energy positive in difficult situations” throughout the trip.
“She works to know each and every one of her students and is invested in their success as people,” Masters said.
Dr. Gerstbauer’s care for students was also noticed by Administrative Assistant Kristi Borowy.
“She cares deeply about all of her students, and she is quick to support them if they are struggling or celebrate them in their achievements,” Borowy said.
Additionally, Dr. Gerstbauer values the relationships she has built with people across departments at Gustavus.
“My colleagues are top-notch, and I have learned a ton from them,” Dr. Gerstbauer said.
Senior Continuing Assistant Professor in Political Science Lori Carsen Kelly recognized Dr. Gerstbauer as the kindest person she knows and “a person of high moral character.” Dr. Carsen Kelly notes that Dr. Gerstbauer is always available to help students and colleagues and makes everyone feel valued.
“She grounds her academic pursuits in a view of the world marked by social justice and moral obligation. In my view, Mimi represents scholarship and teaching at its finest as she places learning in its largest social and moral context.”
Dr. Gerstbauer’s global citizenship was also highlighted by Professor of Religion Marcia Bunge.
“Mimi is deeply service-minded and, at the same time, attentive to her own needs. She also cares for her own children and family while advocating for children and other vulnerable individuals in this community and around the world.”
Dr. Bunge admires that Dr. Gerstbauer impressively embodies seemingly contrary qualities of being intellectually serious and delightful, cheerful, and friendly.
She generously shares her time, talents, and wealth of knowledge with Gustavus, St. Peter, in non-governmental organizations and beyond.
“She is always doing things like giving guest lectures, speaking on a panel about a pressing geopolitical issue, or helping organize events that build community and intellectual exchange,” Dr. Grobelski said.
Dr. Gerstbauer served as a mentor for Associate Professor of Economics Shu-Ling Wang as she navigated the tenure process. Throughout that time, they developed a close relationship and shared many coffee and lunch breaks.
“She is a thoughtful listener, offers honest and caring feedback, and has become a close friend. As a mother of three, she also brings wisdom and perspective about life, faith, and balance that often enrich our conversations beyond work,” Dr. Wang reflected.
Colleagues and students from across departments hold high admiration, respect, and gratitude for Dr. Gerstbauer. Put simply by Dr. Carsen Kelly, “Gustavus is certainly a better place with Mimi here!”