Dr. Mary (MT) Hallock Morris has over 20 years of experience in the USI Political Science, Public Administration and Philosophy Departments. Before joining USI, Morris served as an environmental specialist at a nonprofit organization in rural Louisiana and gained further experience as a newspaper editor in rural Ohio for five years. Her research interests span several critical areas within political science and public policy, including women's leadership in politics, exploring issues of free speech concerning public libraries and book bans and studying environmental concerns related to wetlands and flood prevention infrastructure. Within the academic sphere at USI, Morris plays a pivotal role in educating students across various disciplines. She teaches courses such as American politics, public policy, campaigns and elections and state and local politics. She also teaches courses in the Master of Public Administration (MPA) Program.