Shanna Pearson-Merkowitz

Shanna Pearson-Merkowitz, PhD, is a distinguished scholar and professor at the University of Maryland’s School of Public Policy, where she serves as the Saul I. Stern Chair of Civic Engagement. Her career includes significant academic leadership roles, such as Associate Dean for Faculty Affairs of the UMD School of Public Policy, where she implemented equity-focused policies to improve faculty mentorship and workload fairness. Dr. Pearson-Merkowitz’s research spans public policy, civic engagement, and political polarization, with her work frequently informing local, state, and national policy discussions. A prolific author, she has published extensively on topics like legislative behavior, voting patterns, and land preservation, including her recent co-authored book, The Power of Partisanship (Oxford University Press, 2023).

At the University of Maryland, Dr. Pearson-Merkowitz teaches courses on policy analysis, advocacy, and the legislative process. She also directs the Stern Civic Engagement Lab, which collaborates with local and state governments to better understand constituent opinion and elevate the voices of minoritized populations. This work ensures that public policies represent all Maryland residents, not just the most organized and well-resourced groups, while also giving students at UMD the chance to gain applied feild research skills with local governments. Beyond academia, Dr. Pearson-Merkowitz has been deeply engaged in public service and advocacy, serving as chair of the board for Maryland NARAL and on the boards of several nonprofit organizations. In Rhode Island, she directed the Social Science Institute for Research, Education, and Policy, assisting state legislators in studying issues like paid family leave and foster youth education. She also has experience as a legislative director in Annapolis and has testified on women’s issues, including labor rights and workforce training, bringing a unique blend of academic expertise and practical advocacy to her work.

Currently a resident of Howard County, Dr. Pearson-Merkowitz was born and raised in Prince George’s County. She has two daughters, both of whom attend Howard County public schools.