Kirstin Anderson Birkhaug, Ph.D.
Research Fellow
Kirstin Anderson Birkhaug is a research fellow at the CRCD and book reviews editor of the Journal of Religion, Culture & Democracy. She is an assistant professor of political science at Hope College in Holland, Michigan, which is also her alma mater. Dr. Birkhaug received her PhD in political science (political theory) from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, making her a lifetime resident of the Great Lakes region. Her research focuses on early American political thought, with an emphasis on the contributions of women. As a practicing Christian who teaches at a Christian liberal arts college, Dr. Birkhaug is always interested in investigating the intersection of faith and knowledge, especially alongside her students. She lives in Holland, Michigan, with her husband, who is also a Hope College graduate.
Our Vision
The Center for Religion, Culture & Democracy envisions democratic societies which affirm the essential role of religious convictions, peoples, and institutions in cultivating free and flourishing communities.
Our Mission
To achieve our vision, the CRCD supports the creation and promotion of high quality scholarship at the intersection of religion, culture, and democracy. Our publications, programming, and resources affirm the importance of religion as a public good for strengthening social bonds and reinforcing foundational freedoms.