December 7, 2021 — Eric James Seltzer '18, and Dr. Juris Pupcenoks, Associate Professor of Political Science, co-authored an article "Russian Strategic Narratives on R2P in the 'Near Abroad’" which was recently published in Nationalities Papers, a top history and political science journal by Cambridge University Press. 

Seltzer spent much of his time at Marist working with Pupcenoks and developing their article on Russian diplomatic language towards military interventions in Georgia and Ukraine. Through Seltzer’s persistence, Nationalities Papers published their article in August of 2020, three years after its creation.

Undergraduate research opportunities are an increasingly important academic experience at Marist and faculty mentoring is essential to facilitating these opportunities. "Eric contributed significantly to this project with data gathering and analysis, background research, the development of the literature review, and the writing of the paper,” said Pupcenoks. “This co-authored publication is particularly meaningful as the journal is ranked as a top-tier peer-reviewed journal in history. I enjoy mentoring undergraduate research projects and it never ceases to amaze me how many outstanding students we have at Marist.”

Seltzer’s collaboration with Pupcenoks began as a research project in the Marist Honors Program and evolved into continued research on Russian diplomacy. Writing Russian Strategic Narratives with Pupcenoks aided Seltzer in the process of analyzing diplomats’ statements, revising the paper’s content, and completing the rigorous peer-review process. Pupcenoks and Seltzer were aided by Alexandra Miskulin '21, Patrick Hickey '18, and Alexandra Cirovic '20 who served as research assistants on this project.

In addition to working with Pupcenoks, Seltzer took full advantage of Marist’s academic offerings by combining a unique set of academic programs and leadership opportunities. Students are encouraged at the College to approach their learning from multiple disciplines, “a triangle approach.” Double majoring in Political Science and History and completing a Paralegal Certificate, Seltzer was able to gain hands-on learning experiences alongside a comprehensive education that prepared him to succeed in law school and professionally. "Without a doubt, my experience co-authoring with Pupcenoks - my professor, mentor, and good friend - was my proudest moment at Marist," said Seltzer.

After graduation, Seltzer enrolled in the St. John’s University School of Law where he graduated with honors and earned a law degree. Seltzer is now employed as a Financial Restructuring Associate at Milbank LLP. Milbank is a premier international law firm handling high-profile, complex cases and business transactions through 12 offices worldwide.

To learn more about the programs in the School of Liberal Arts at Marist College, visit the School’s website.