Thomas A. Palmer
Political Science

1986 Distinguished Teaching Award
1987 Distinguished Service Award

During his 22-year career at the College of Charleston, teaching evaluations placed Dr. Palmer among the best in his department and in the College. He joined the faculty in 1970 as Associate Professor of Political Science, was promoted to Professor in 1976 and awarded the title of Distinguished Professor Emeritus upon his retirement in 1992.

Dr. Palmer took on administrative responsibilities in addition to his teaching workload. He served as Director of Summer School and Evening Programs in 1972, Director of Evening Programs 1973-74, Dean of Community Services and Continuing Education 1974-75, Chair of the Political Science Department 1980-83, and Director of International Studies 1984-86.

International Relations was one of Dr. Palmer’s primary teaching and research interests, especially political indoctrination in armed forces. In 1985 he taught a course in International Relations at The Citadel.

Dr. Palmer received his B.A. in History from the College of William and Mary, his M.A. in International Studies from The American University and his Ph.D. in International Studies from the University of South Carolina.

Dr. Palmer served in the United States Marine Corps and was a combat veteran of both World War II and the Korean Conflict. From 1962 until 1964, he was Staff Assistant to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Education. He was an instructor at the University of South Carolina, Beaufort 1965-67. After leaving the service in 1968, he was a teaching associate at the University of South Carolina 1968-69 where he conducted SURPASS, a pilot program that provided academically superior high school seniors with an opportunity for advanced studies.

Dr. Palmer also distinguished himself in the community where he was highly sought after as a speaker. He wrote and narrated a videotape on the history of Charleston for “Heritage Education,” a program for secondary school children. In 1984, he was awarded the Daughters of Confederacy Medal for his service to his country and community.

In 1983, Dr. Palmer was invited by the Republic of Korea to participate as speaker and discussant on United States/Korean relations at the 30th anniversary of the end of the Korean Conflict. During the celebration, the Republic of Korea awarded him the Order of National Defense.

Dr. Palmer made contributions to his profession as well, serving as Vice President and President of the South Carolina Political Science Association.

Dr. Palmer died in June, 2005.