STC associate professor recognized for dedication to empowering future leaders

South Texas College Political Science faculty member Richard Buchli, Ed.D., was one of 10 STC faculty members to receive an Academic Classification for 2023-2024, resulting in a new title: Assistant Professor.

Buchli’s approach, which blends academic content with civic engagement, exemplifies the criteria for receiving an academic classification. His dedication to fostering critical thinking and lifelong skills among a robust portfolio of past work, presentations and projects, helped him earn an academic classification and a place in the college’s Faculty Spotlight.

Reflecting on his classification, Buchli expressed humility and a deep commitment to his students.

“It’s an honor to be recognized, but the real reward is seeing my students become informed and engaged citizens,” he said.

Since joining the college in 2017, Buchli has been a dedicated advocate for student engagement in politics, emphasizing the critical role young voters play in shaping the future.

“I’ve been passionate about politics since grade school,” Buchli said. “I strive to make my students understand how the government impacts their daily lives and how important it is for them to participate, especially by voting.”

“The government should be looking forward to the future, and young people should be influencing it because it’s their lives that are most affected,” Buchli explained.

When asked what he enjoys most about his job, Buchli’s enthusiasm is evident.

“In some ways, it doesn’t even feel like work. I could talk about government and politics all day long, and the fact that I’m getting paid to do that—hey, that’s really good,” he said with a smile.

He also advises his students to pursue careers they are passionate about, even if those fields are historically less lucrative, because doing what you love is crucial for long-term satisfaction.