The Movers & Change-Makers series highlights some of the upcoming graduates of the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs who are set to make an impact in both their policy areas and communities. These leaders embody the core values of The University of Texas at Austin, including learning, discovery, freedom, leadership, individual opportunity and responsibility. Through their studies at the LBJ School, they are gaining know-how to change the world.
Jordan Jessie, a soon-to-be Master of Public Affairs graduate, has been selected by her peers as the 2025 student commencement speaker. On May 10, she will take the stage to reflect on the journey of the LBJ School Class of 2025 and send off her fellow graduates with a message of hope and purpose.
“I’m excited to be able to uplift my class as we gather one last time and instill a bit of hope as we transition into this next chapter of our lives.”
Raised in South Dallas, Jessie was shaped by the disparities she witnessed in her community, where limited resources often stifled potential. Many of her talented peers weren’t encouraged to pursue college due to financial barriers and limited support. Those early experiences, paired with her mother's influence, a nurse at the Veterans Affairs hospital who emphasized the importance of community service, fueled her desire to pursue public policy to help build systems that better support marginalized communities in Texas.
Jessie began her undergraduate studies at Howard University but transferred to The University of Texas at Austin in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic to be closer to home. Though UT provided valuable opportunities, she knew she needed more technical training to pursue a career in policy.
At LBJ, Jessie developed her skills in analysis, communication and leadership. She cites professor Steven Pedigo’s urban economic development course and policy research lab as particularly transformative experiences. Although the classes were challenging, they encouraged her to broaden her abilities and sparked an interest in roles related to economic development. Additionally, she gained practical experience as a Terrell Blodgett Urban Affairs Fellow, where she actively engaged with local government leaders and built a network with alumni committed to public service.
In addition to her academic work, Jessie took on leadership roles that helped her find her voice. She served as a Barbara Jordan National Forum Co-Chair and the Graduate Public Affairs Council (GPAC) President. These roles helped her grow as a leader and advocate.
“I’ve found my voice and learned how to advocate for myself and others.”
Looking ahead, Jessie hopes to stay in Austin and work in state or local government in a role that allows her to continue learning and contributing across various policy areas. She said she is a generalist at heart and wants to find a role that lets her explore diverse topics while helping Texans.
Reflecting on her two years at LBJ, Jessie says the experience has given her the practical tools she needed and the confidence to use them. As commencement nears, she encourages future LBJ students to take full advantage of what the program offers.
“The LBJ School is a unique environment that offers a bit of everything: diverse coursework, the ability to study abroad, wide-spanning connections and the ability to become a better leader. Take advantage of everything this school and community gives you and cherish every moment.”
When she delivers her commencement speech, Jessie will speak as a student leader and a voice for her classmates, leaders equipped with the Know-How to change the world.
Get all the details on the LBJ School’s 2025 Commencement here.