The Lyndon B. Johnson School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin welcomed students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends for its annual State of the College address by Interim Dean J. Paul Pope on Thursday, Sept. 24. Pope reflected on the school’s core mission to train the next generation of policy leaders, conduct research that addresses real and current policy challenges, and serve as a respected source of thought leadership.
As the LBJ School continues to grow, Pope shared several highlights for the 2026-27 academic year, including the second cohort of undergraduate students, the inaugural Master of National Security (MNS) class and two new minors.
Bachelor of Public Affairs: The LBJ School welcomed its second freshman cohort into its first-ever undergraduate program this fall. With the next two incoming classes, the school expects to have approximately 500 undergraduate students enrolled.
Master of National Security: The LBJ School welcomed its inaugural MNS cohort this fall, building on the school’s longstanding national security expertise and partnerships across UT Austin. The program brings together national security with specialized areas such as China, Russia, cyber threats, space and nuclear proliferation.
New National Security and International Development Minors: The LBJ School is introducing two new minors this year, giving students from across UT Austin the opportunity to incorporate public affairs coursework into their studies.
According to Interim Dean Pope, "It is not the job of the interim dean to develop a long-term strategy. But even while we search for our new dean, I have been surprised at the number of decisions that cannot wait. I have also been surprised by the many opportunities coming our way."
Looking ahead, Pope highlighted three priorities that will guide his leadership as interim dean: 1) intentionality about student outcomes, 2) seeking every opportunity to show LBJ’s value to Texas and 3) artificial intelligence. These priorities include strengthening career preparation, highlighting the school’s impact across Texas and exploring the opportunities and challenges AI presents for education, research and policy.
Pope also provided an update on the search for the LBJ School’s next permanent dean. The Provost’s Office plans to select a search consultant this fall, with a goal of having a permanent dean in place by next summer.
As the LBJ School enters another year of growth and change, Pope emphasized the importance of remaining "attentive, agile and adaptive" while continuing to advance the school’s mission and prepare students to lead in a rapidly changing world.
Following the State of the College address, the LBJ School celebrated the recipients of the Outstanding Alumni Awards. R. Paul Kinscherff (MPAff/MBA '85) received the Distinguished Public Service Award and Katie Fine (MPAff '15) was honored with the LBJ Rising Leader Award.
The evening concluded with Party on the Plaza, where attendees gathered for food, music, games and an opportunity to celebrate the start of the new academic year and our award winners.
Party on the Plaza Photo Album
