Matthew Ruppert is a senior in Columbia College from Minnesota, pursuing a major in political science and a concentration in human rights. His research interests include civilian protection during conflict, civil war onset, international human rights law, and the political role of sports and international organizations. Matthew is currently the President of the Columbia Policy Institute and contributes to a professor’s research on political violence. Previously, he has been a Legislative Intern in a Senate office, a Research Intern at the National Academy of Public Administration, and a District Field Organizer for the Minnesota DFL