In this edition of In Conversation, Dr. Michael Horswell engages with Professors Dr. Carol Bishop Mills & Dr. Kevin Wagner, Co-Directors of the PolCom Lab in the College of Arts & Letters at Florida Atlantic University. The PolCom Lab investigates and analyzes public opinion and political trends nationwide, focusing on Florida.

Dr. Carol Bishop Mills is a Professor and Director of the School of Communication and Multimedia Studies at Florida Atlantic University, and the co-director of the FAU PolCom Lab. She earned her Ph.D. in Communication from Purdue University and is known for her extensive research in relational communication, particularly in complex dynamics such as teasing, bullying, harassment, and frenemyships. Her recent work focuses on bullying within academic settings, providing critical insights into how these behaviors impact both individuals and institutions. Dr. Mills has published widely on these topics and previously co-chaired the National Communication Association’s Anti-Bullying Task Force and served as the editor for the newsletter for the Global Listening Centre.

Kevin Wagner is a Professor of Political Science, Co-Director of the PolCom Lab and Associate Dean of Research in the College of Arts & Letters at Florida Atlantic University. He teaches courses on American politics, political organizations, public opinion, judicial politics, and media in politics. Wagner’s research has primarily centered around understanding political change in democratic systems including shifts caused by technological developments. His expertise has been featured in leading publications including the New York Times and American Review of Politics. Dr. Wagner earned a J.D. from the University of Florida and previously worked as a practicing attorney before earning his M.A. and Ph.D. in political science at the University of Florida.