Tyler Lissy

Email: tyler.lissy@maine.edu

Program/Department: School of Policy and International Affairs (Global Policy; Security and Foreign Policy)

Why did you decide to become a GSG senator?: I actually did not make this decision until very recently. It was largely the result of one of our initial SPIA senators had a time constraint, and I knew that the meeting times fit well with my schedule. I may not have gone to UMaine as an undergraduate, but my time at Dickinson College saw me heavily intertwined with the school. I was a class senator for the Dickinson Student senate, serving for one academic year. I was also a global ambassador for the study abroad program at my school, presenting information on advice abroad to prospective/future study abroad students. Lastly, I was a founding member of Project Wave, a student-led mental health club on campus dedicated to destigmatizing the topic and raising awareness. All of these experiences point toward my general interest in being involved with the school, especially in ways that I can help bring significant positive change.

How would you best serve your constituents?: I would best serve my constituents by actively listening to their concerns, advocating for their needs, and creating open channels of communication that encourage feedback and collaboration. My goal is to represent the diverse perspectives of the graduate student body by promoting transparency, supporting initiatives that enhance academic and professional opportunities, and fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus environment where all voices are heard and valued. This is supported by the work I involve myself in. Being an effective member within the international affairs and policy community requires a global perspective, encompassing as many viewpoints as possible.

Please tell us about your research or some fun facts about you: My research interests focus on the intersection of international security, emerging technologies, and geopolitical hotspots. I enjoy examining how technological innovation, resource dependencies, and hybrid conflict shape power dynamics between states. Currently, I am completing a fellowship with the Pacific Forum on India’s Defense sector and U.S.-India relations.

How do you plan on communicating with your constituents?: I’ll make myself available to answer questions or discuss ideas when needed. My goal is to stay approachable and responsive so everyone feels informed and included, even with a simple communication approach.