Eleni M. 'Marylena' Mantas-Kourounis, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science and Global Affairs at Sacred Heart University. Her research and teaching interests include education politics and policies, public policy, interest groups, and American state and local politics.

She serves as associate and managing editor of the journal Political Science Quarterly. She has extensive experience as both an editor and writer. Marylena has presented and published on civic education and political interest. She received a B.A. in Political Science from Columbia University, an M.A. in European Studies from NYU and an M.S. in Public Policy & Management from The New School. Her Ph.D. is in Education Policy & Social Analysis from Columbia University.