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Meet the CSR

Origin

The Calvin College Center for Social Research (CSR) was created by the Calvin Department of Sociology in 1970 in response to increasing numbers of faculty requests for research assistance. Since then, the CSR has grown into an independent center, supporting all of the social science departments of Calvin College as well as the broader community. Throughout its history, CSR's top priorities have been to promote excellence in research, both on campus and in the community.

Mission

The Center for Social Research aims to serve as a catalyst for scholarly research in the social sciences. Through research we seek to be agents of renewal in the academy, church, and society.

Commitments

• Research: promote basic and applied research of the highest quality by encouragement, example, and engagement with the college’s social science community.

• Partnership: undertake collaborative and community-based research with scholars, organizations, and institutions at the local, regional, national, and international levels.

• Faculty Development: enhance the scholarly community in social sciences at Calvin College.

• Student Involvement: provide opportunities for students to develop their research skills in a mentoring environment.

Staff
		James Penning, Ph.D., Director, is Professor of Political Science at Calvin College. His primary areas of research are Religion & Politics and American state & local politics.
		Neil Carlson, Ph.D., Assistant Director, offers general support for research design, survey administration, geographic information systems (GIS) and technology development.
		Christina Vanden Bosch, B.A., Research Associate, graduated from Calvin College with a degree in Psychology. She works as a supervisor for the student staff and is responsible for project implementation.
		Kathy Bardolph, B.A., Administrative Assistant, offers administrative, clerical, and project support to the Center.
Student Staff Team: The Student Research Assistants are comprised of a team of Calvin students who are constantly being trained in new research tools and practices. Currently, we have seven students:
		Kristin Booy is a senior Psychology major with minors in French and Gender Studies.
		Michael Evans-Totoe is a junior Information Technology major.
		Tyler Greenway is a junior Psychology major.
		Nathan Mosurinjohn recently graduated with degrees in Geography and International Development.
		Jeff Schiman recently graduated with a degree in Economics.
		Leia Vos is a senior Psychology major with a minor in Communications.