Dr. David Blanding

Biography

David Blanding is the faculty director of the Master of Public Affairs (MPA) program at the Watson School of International and Public Affairs. In his dual role as associate professor of practice, he teaches core and elective courses within the MPA program and leads curricular development efforts to enhance the program's impact and visibility. Blanding has extensive experience in public policy research, particularly in areas such as policing, civil rights, and race. Prior to joining the MPA program, he held senior roles at the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), where he focused on research methodologies and federal policies. His academic career includes positions at American University, McDaniel College, and Brown University, where he has published research on voting rights, economic development, and social welfare policies. Blanding is actively involved in advocacy for racial justice and educational equity, drawing on his experiences with the American Civil Liberties Union and not-for-profit organizations. He holds an M.A. and Ph.D. in political science from Brown University and an undergraduate degree from Boston University.

Research Interests

Courses