Our cherished friend and colleague Nicolas van de Walle (1957-2024) shaped the field of political science and African politics in substantial and important ways. His insights into the politics of economic policymaking and “permanent crisis,” the driving forces of regime dynamics, electoral politics, and democratic transitions continue to underpin the foundations of comparative politics. 

Beyond his written work, van de Walle’s legacy is firmly anchored in how he treated his fellow scholars—at home at Cornell and around the world. His kindness, generosity of spirit, intellectual curiosity, and joy in the ongoing process of learning from others. These are the characteristics that define him to so many who were lucky enough to know him and interact with him. He has served as a mentor to hundreds: offering support, incisive feedback, advice, and conversation to think through the politics of our time. We honor him as a brilliant scholar and a gentle soul who lifted others up and made our collective humanity richer.

This conference in his honor will focus on the core themes of African political economy, regimes, and modes of electoral and social participation and contestation.