Thomas S. Foley InstitutePeople

People

Thessalia (Lia) Merivaki, PhD, Director

Professor Merivaki is Thomas S. Foley Distinguished Professor of Government and Director of Thomas S. Foley Institute of Public Service and Public Policy at Washington state University. Professor Merivaki joins Washington State University from her previous position at Georgetown University, where she was an associate professor with joint appointments at the McCourt School of Public Policy and the Massive Data Institute. Professor Merivaki’s research interests lie at the intersection of institutional communications, digital information, and election science, with particular emphasis on voter behavior, political communication, and trust in election integrity. She is a co-founder of the Digital Trust Lab at the Massive Data Institute and is and currently a non-resident fellow at the Center for Democracy & Technology and serving on the editorial team of the Disability Policy Foundry.

Richard Elgar, PhD, Associate Director

Richard Elgar has been with the Foley Institute since 2006. He received a PhD in Political Science from Washington State University in 2019. His research focuses on economic and gender inequality in Latin America. He also serves as the Executive Director of the Pacific Northwest Political Science Association.

Foley Interns (Fall 2026)

Chapman Strano

Chapman Strano is a junior at Washington State University studying Political Science with a focus on pre-law. His academic interests include studying law, public policy, and the political history of the United States. He hopes to pursue a career in law and public service and is excited to gain experience in public policy through his work with the Foley Institute.

Madison Binek

Madison Binek is a second-year intern at the Foley Institute with experience in WordPress and print flyer design. She is majoring in Criminal Justice with a minor in Political Science. Through her internship, she is gaining hands-on experience in communications and design while preparing for a career in government after graduation. 

Collin Bannister

Collin Bannister is a fifth-year student at Washington State University studying Philosophy and Political Science. He previously served as Director of Legislative Affairs for the Associated Students of Washington State University and as President of the Washington Student Association, gaining three legislative sessions of on-site lobbying experience at the Washington State Capitol. He also completed a congressional internship in Washington, D.C., along with several political programs and fellowships. Following graduation, Collin plans to attend law school, with the goal of studying in the Washington, D.C. region. His interests include higher education policy, constitutional law, and international relations. 

Sarah Molloy

Sarah Molloy is a 2nd year undergraduate student of Political Science and International Business. She is a member of the Cougar Marching Band and the Honors College. She has strong interests in Foreign Relations and the spread of disinformation through online sources. Through her time at the Foley Institute she hopes to learn more about real world applications of political outreach methods.