The Center for the Study of Democracy was founded in 2002 as a joint initiative of St. Mary’s College and its partner institution, Historic St. Mary’s City. It explores contemporary and historical issues associated with the ideas of democracy, liberty and justice in national and international contexts. It facilitates activities that strengthen democracy and the rule of law, enhance security and individual freedoms, invigorate civil society, encourage free enterprise, and increase economic, environmental, educational and cultural equity.
Dr. Ugues has been the Director of the Center for the Study of Democracy since July 1, 2019. He is also an associate professor in political science at St. Mary’s College of Maryland.
Dr. Ugues teaches courses in comparative politics, democracy and elections, and the politics of Latin America at St. Mary’s College. He received his PhD in political science from the University of California at Riverside. His research interests include democracy, electoral systems, and electoral integrity in Latin America. His work has appeared in several academic venues including: Electoral Studies; Journal of Politics in Latin America; Latin American Politics and Society; Journal of Elections, Public Opinion, and Parties; Journal of Legislative Studies; and Democracy and Security. His current research agenda explores attitudes towards democracy and electoral integrity in contemporary Mexican and U.S. politics.
