The Spectrum

Issue date: 4/10/08 Section: News

Photo contributed by Prof. Gary Rose

A revolutionary ringleader presents the battle of reality vs. theory this semester in Government classes.



After a year of teaching Introduction to American Government for the political science department, professor Robert Russo has been elected to the state Senate.



"I'm concerned about my community in Bridgeport and I think I can make a difference," said Russo.



Russo's victory comes after two previous losses for the Senate seat.



"He won 61 percent of the vote in a special election in March, when the previous Senator Bill Finch moved up to become mayor of Bridgeport. He will have to campaign again in November 2008 to renew a two year term in the Senate," said Dr. Gary Rose, political science department chair.



Russo has served as Deputy Chief of Staff for Congressman Christopher Shays, in addition to chairman of the Bridgeport Republican Party.



Russo plans to enrich students' knowledge with stories from his first hand experience in the roles he has served.



"Government politics is a lot more difficult and complicated than the textbook portrays," said Russo. "However, it is also more human."



Rose is trying to take a more realistic approach with the curriculum. Currently, the department has a lobbyist teaching a class in the evening and Russo's addition further advances this goal.



"We want to give our students more than a theory," said Rose. "I would urge students to take a course with a practitioner to see reality vs. theory."



Furthermore, students have already begun to take advantage of Russo's experience.



"He has already become quite popular amongst the students," said Rose. "He is very connected to internships and students will have a lot of opportunities with him, one being a direct internship with his office."



Russo's credentials will provide for realistic lectures.



"I think that having professor Russo now on the state Senate is an extreme plus for Sacred Heart University and especially the students," said student body president, junior Matthew Telvi. "The insight that he will continue to share to his students will be firsthand knowledge and will hopefully grab student's attention in a different manner."



Additionally, Russo already has an agenda planned for what he would like to accomplish in office. First and foremost, he would like to address the high cost of living.

Continued...

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