AUSTIN, Texas – Executive Vice President and Provost William Inboden has appointed Professor J. Paul Pope interim dean of the LBJ School of Public Affairs, effective August 1.
Pope will step into the role as Dean JR DeShazo transitions to his new position as dean of the Sanford School of Public Policy at Duke University beginning August 1.
“Paul has built and led teams in complex, high-stakes environments and has expertise in intelligence, strategy and national security policy. His extensive leadership experience positions him well to guide the LBJ School during this transition period.” - William Inboden, Executive Vice President and Provost
Professor Pope is the Loyd Hackler Chair for Ethical Leadership and a Senior Fellow with the Clements-Strauss Intelligence Studies Project. During his 12 years at the school, he has served as a professor of practice, mentor and academic leader as the Graduate Studies Committee Chair of the Master of National Security. A retired senior CIA officer and U.S. Army veteran, he brings decades of experience in intelligence, national security and public service.
"Professor Pope has served the LBJ School as a superlative Professor of Practice, a dedicated mentor to students, and a highly effective academic leader. He is deeply committed to our mission and the research and teaching excellence of the LBJ School." - JR DeShazo, Dean, LBJ School of Public Affairs
The appointment comes as the LBJ School continues a period of significant growth, including the expansion of undergraduate offerings, new interdisciplinary programs, and the launch of the Master of National Security degree program.
"Our task at the LBJ School is not only to equip young people for meaningful lives and productive careers, but more specifically, for lives of public service. Doing this well benefits not only our students and the university but our country, our state, and our local communities." - J. Paul Pope, Interim Dean, LBJ School of Public Affairs