Academics - Political Science Faculty & Staff

Since 2003, Scott Himsel has taught at Wabash about American politics focusing on the courts. In his courses, Scott helps students take the lead in arguing hot button issues like gay marriage, abortion, the separation of church and state, and the death penalty. He particularly enjoys challenging students to make arguments with which they disagree so they learn how to "walk all the way around" a problem. Scott also enjoys teaching freshman tutorials that deal with politics and history as well as the enduring questions course for freshmen.  He is particularly interested in helping freshmen develop their writing, public speaking and debating skills.

In addition to his teaching, Scott also guides students who are considering a legal career. He helps oversee Wabash's prelaw program, including an annual moot court where students argue a case to lawyer alumni and judges; preparation for the Law School Admissions Test, which lawyer alumni help fund; law school visits; and the annual Peck Lecture, which features eminent lawyers who share their experiences with students.

Scott has practiced law for over twenty-five years.  Scott and his wife Jane Ann, a fellow Northwestern University law graduate, share a strong interest in how law and religion intersect; they attend the Episcopal Church of All Saints. Scott loves opera, classical music, swimming, running and reading biographies.