The Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin launched an exciting academic year with its annual State of the College address by Dean JR DeShazo on Thursday, Sept. 25. The address highlighted the completed renovations to the LBJ Building and welcomed the first-ever freshman class to our Bachelor of Public Affairs program. The future of the Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs will continue to flourish in the upcoming 2025-2026 academic year with an ambitious vision for the year ahead.
Dean DeShazo’s address brought together the vision of Lyndon B. Johnson and the purpose that reflects the school’s mission of service and good. Deshazo, “LBJ’s legacy lives not only in policy but in this school — in how we teach, lead, serve and listen, as well as in our alumni.”
DeShazo’s address highlighted the importance of preparing leaders of the future who can navigate differences and advance the public good in any environment.
The State of the College Address showcased the future success of the LBJ School, with the first-ever freshman class of our Bachelor of Public Affairs program, and next fall, we will launch the Master of National Security. These are just a few examples of the school's growing momentum during the 2025-26 academic year.
Looking ahead to 2025-26, DeShazo shared his vision, which includes introducing the two new degree programs and expanding centers to enhance policy support and resources for students and the communities they serve.
Bachelor of Public Affairs: The LBJ School’s inaugural class for the first-ever undergraduate program, started this Fall 2025.
Master of National Security: National security leadership is essential for promoting global peace, security, democracy and human rights. In collaboration with national security leaders and LBJ Professors Paul Pope and Michael Dennis, the school will soon launch the only residential national security program in Texas.
Center for Municipal Capital Markets (CMCM): Addressing the growing demand for specialized training in public finance, CMCM—the only university-based center in the country is focused exclusively on capital market issues within public finance.
The students, faculty, and alumni of the LBJ School are rising to meet the moment. According to DeShazo, “Our mission endures — to prepare principled public leaders who know how to change the world — and we are proud to continue that work with you.”
Following the State of the College address, the LBJ School celebrated the two recipients of the Outstanding Alumni Awards. Corrie Stokes (MPAff '00) received the Distinguished Public Service Award, while Christopher Purdy (MPAff-DC '19) was honored with the LBJ Rising Leader Award.
The evening concluded with a festive "Party on the Plaza," where attendees enjoyed food and celebrated the promising year ahead. The event was a testament to the tremendous impact of the LBJ School and its vibrant community.
Transcript will be available soon.
Party on the Plaza Event Photos
