My research program focuses on questions of political and economic equality, with a special focus on the experiences of marginalized groups with government and the representation of the interests of the poor in policymaking. My dissertation combines these interests into a study of rural individuals' attitudes and experiences in the realm of health care. My work has appeared in the American Political Science Review, the Election Law Journal, and Political Science Research & Methods.
Prior to coming to Vanderbilt, I earned my Master’s of Applied Politics degree at the University of Akron and my Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Murray State University. Outside of academia, I am a former congressional campaign staffer and fundraiser.
Welcome to my academic website. I am currently a PhD Candidate in the Department of Political Science at Vanderbilt University. Email me at mshepherd1901@gmail.com with any questions or comments.
PhD Candidate in Political Science - Vanderbilt University