Konnor Gottfred
Fall 2022 John Jay Fellow
Hometown: Rockford, Illinois
College: Lipscomb University
Degree: B.A., Political Science
Konnor Gottfred graduated summa cum laude from Lipscomb University in May 2022, majoring in Political Science. His studies focused on research methodologies, constitutional law, and international development and relief. Konnor studied the Bush administration’s faith-based initiative and the United States Agency for International Development's (USAID) funding practices.
However, he also devoted time to researching the Church’s influence over Western marriage customs and monasticism’s contributions to the brewing industry. Partnering with professors, Konnor conducted several research projects and presented his findings at Lipscomb's annual student scholar's symposium. With regard to student life, Konnor served his student body as a senator for Student Government Association (SGA) and as a resident assistant in the dorms.
During his time at Lipscomb, Konnor was awarded Best Political Columnist by his university’s news outlet. He was inducted into the National Political Science Honor Society and was honored with the John W. Burgess Award for outstanding scholarship in Political Science.
After his time with the John Jay Institute’s Fellows Program, Konnor hopes to pursue graduate work in International Development to attain a position in academia or the nonprofit sector.