By Brittany Baumgarten
Political science Professor Dewey Clayton makes learning interesting and presents world truths in an unbiased manner. Clayton, completing his twelfth year in the political science department began teaching at the University of Louisville in 1994.
Clayton is an amazing professor who really makes his classes a joy to attend. He is very intelligent and presents both sides to any heated political issue discussed in class.
“I enjoy being in the classroom, there isn’t a more wonderful place to be. I really enjoy the element of excitement each class brings,” said Clayton.
Clayton received his undergraduate instruction at Moorehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia where he earned his Bachelor of Arts in political science. He then continued his education at North Carolina Central University in Durham, North Carolina where he earned his Masters of Public Administration. A few years later, Clayton went to the University of Missouri-Columbia to get his Ph. D. in political science.
His childhood was a time when blacks were beginning to emerge in the political scene, and that his very own family was quite involved as well said Clayton.
While working on political campaigns in North Carolina, he was getting his masters. Working on campaigns interested him, how years ago people voted on racial lines and that had all begun to change. Clayton wrote his dissertation on political redistricting entitled, “African Americans and the Politics of Congressional Redistricting.”
His classes are enjoyable, he presents the facts, and leaves out any of his own biases. Clayton enlightens students to see that all people are not the same and it is an intelligent choice to be open-minded to others and their own culture.
Clayton talks about hot button issues such as racism, slavery and equal rights to help students learn and expand their minds. “I am the eternal optimist, I do what I do in hopes that we can break down some of the barriers between the human races,” said Clayton.
Clayton is optimistic that one day it will be less about race and more about the message and believes we’re entering a new era of larger acceptance.
His mission is to help produce successful, productive students that are a benefit rather than a burden to society; his plan of action is one class at a time. Clayton makes class interesting and keeps his students engaged and motivated. In turn, he feeds off his students and their energy; he says they keep him young and vibrant.
Clayton embodies the idea of a teacher, not only does he care about his area of expertise, but also his students.
“Change the world one person at a time and judge people whether they are a good human being or not,” said Clayton.
