Wendy Martinek
Professor, Political Science
I received my BA in government and philosophy at Lawrence University. Though I am grateful for the opportunities I had there, my socio-economic background (I was poor) compared to that of my peers (they were definitely not poor) made me feel like a fish out of water. After working for several years in unsatisfying jobs, I started graduate school at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. I ultimately earned my MA in political science there (despite not really knowing what I was doing) and then transferred to Michigan State (where I found my passion for studying law and courts) for my PHD. I love hunting for treasures at thrift stores and flea markets (especially vintage travel maps and pamphlets), adore my two great nephews and three great nieces (who are the absolute loves of my life), and am a diehard fan of my native state of Wisconsin (yes, I am a cheesehead).