Chris Borick 2020

Christopher Borick, professor of political science and director of the Muhlenberg College Institute of Public Opinion (MCIPO), is a nationally recognized public opinion researcher who has conducted more than 300 large-scale public opinion surveys over the past two decades. He founded MCIPO, which measures the public’s views on electoral and public policy issues with a concentration on environmental and health matters. 

Contact: [email protected], 484-664-3066

Polling Institute Staff

Christopher P. Borick
Director, Institute of Public Opinion
Professor of Political Science
484-664-3066
[email protected]

Maureen Bayraktar
Administrative Assistant
484-664-3066
[email protected]
Student Managers

Catherine Barrish '25
Cathy is a Senior double majoring in mathematics and political science.  She is interested in research fields combining her two academic disciplines.  Outside of the classroom at Muhlenberg, Cathy has been a member of the field hockey, cheer, and tennis teams.  In the fall of 2024 she plans to attend law school.

Marissa Cohen '25
Marissa Cohen is a junior from Newtown, Pennsylvania. She is double majoring in political science and dance, and is a member of the Muhlenberg Scholars honors program. Outside of academics and working at the IPO, she is president of Muhlenberg Pep Band, alumni relations officer for the Muhlenberg Dance Association, co-PR chair for Copacetic Rhythms, and a tour guide. Marissa’s academic interests include campaigns and elections, environmental policy, and public health policy.

Noah Halterman-Mitchell '24
Noah is a senior majoring in political science and minoring in Spanish. He is interested in political theory, democracy studies, international relations, and energy policy. He has studied abroad in Spain and Bangladesh. Outside of the classroom, Noah has been a member of the Mock Trial Team and is currently a member of the Track and Field Team and the Cross Country Team.

Anthony Merchlinsky '24
My name is Tony Merchlinsky, I am from Schuylkill County, PA and I am currently a senior dual majoring in Political Exonomy and Public Policy and Business Administration with a concentration in management. I am a member of the Muhlenberg Football team and the Muhlenberg Athletic Leadership team and I am entering my second year as a research assistant with the Muhlenberg College Institute of Public Opinion.  I am a volunteer with the Andy Tally Bone Marrow Foundation, Be The Match, and the Muhlenberg College All Sports Camp. Upon graduation I plan to enter the field of public administration and have the goal of one day becoming an elected official.

Adam Stone '25
I am a History major and Political Science minor from New Jersey. I'm very interested in learning about how the world has and does work, and how I can use that knnowledge to help others. I'm potentially interested in working later on in a data collection/analysis role similar to what I do here. In addition to working at the Institute of Public Opinion at Muhlenerg, I work as a statistics tutor as well as the secretary of Intramural Volleyball.