News

Vanessa Fuentes

From Advocacy to Elected Office: EMPL Degree Fuels Austin Leader’s Impact

Feb. 28, 2025
Austin's Mayor Pro Tem, Vanessa Fuentes (EMPL '24), uses her EMPL education to drive impactful policy changes, including the successful District Service Funds initiative.
BJNF 2025 student chairs standing in front of LBJ glass with State Rep Senfronia Thompson

The LBJ School hosted the 29th Annual Barbara Jordan National Forum

Feb. 26, 2025
The LBJ School of Public Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin paid tribute to the life and legacy of former congresswoman, distinguished public servant and teacher Barbara Jordan during the 29th annual Barbara Jordan National Forum (BJNF) throughout the week of February 17 - February 22, with a variety of event including an honorary keynote, a luncheon, and an art show.
 Shannon Miller

Bridging Science and Policy to Shape a Career in Global Environmental Strategy

Feb. 20, 2025
Shannon Miller (MGPS ’24) bridged science and policy at LBJ and is now shaping global environmental strategy at the Climate Imperative Foundation.
Kennedy Simon

Kennedy Simon’s Dedication to Uplifting Voices as a Barbra Jordan National Forum Co-Chair

Feb. 10, 2025
Kennedy Simon (MPAff '25) keeps Barbara Jordan’s legacy alive through leadership and advocacy.
Ashley Alvarado and BJNF Chairs

From Student Leader to Policy Advocate: Ashley Alvarado’s Journey to BJNF Co-Chair

Feb. 5, 2025
Ashley Alvarado (MPAff '25) channels her lifelong passion for leadership and advocacy as co-chair of the 2025 Barbara Jordan National Forum.
Austin, TX

Top Policy Researchers Unveil Blueprint To Manage Growth Challenges in Texas Metro Areas

Feb. 5, 2025
The Texas Metropolitan Blueprint outlines a five-year plan to tackle urban growth challenges through economic, infrastructure, housing and AI strategies.
Crowd of people in lecture hall, watching 4 speakers on stage

LBJ School hosts expert panel on clean energy transition with Canary Media and Volts

Jan. 30, 2025
On Tuesday, January 28, 2025, the LBJ School of Public Affairs hosted Canary Media and David Roberts of Volts as they joined LBJ School and UT faculty for an afternoon of expert conversations about the clean energy transition.
Ali Altahafi

Carrying the Legacy Forward: Ali Altahafi Co-Chairs the Barbara Jordan National Forum

Jan. 28, 2025
Ali Altahafi, a Master of Public Affairs student at the LBJ School and one of this year’s Barbara Jordan National Forum (BJNF) chairs, draws from his personal experiences and professional aspirations to lead the 29th Annual BJNF.
LBJ School Dean JR DeShazo, center, with faculty members Admiral Joseph Maguire, Paul Von Hippel, Paul Pope and Michael Webber

LBJ School faculty awarded prestigious appointments for expertise in national security, energy, and public health

Jan. 28, 2025
The LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas at Austin is proud to celebrate new faculty recipients of prestigious chair and professorship titles. With expertise spanning national security, energy, and public health, their dedication to advancing knowledge and shaping public affairs exemplifies the LBJ School's mission to equip students with the know-how to change the world.
Emily Barton

From Austin to Capitol Hill: a 2024 LBJ School DC graduate’s journey

Dec. 5, 2024
Emily Barton’s journey to becoming this year’s DC cohort commencement speaker reflects her deep-rooted Longhorn pride and dedication to public policy and foreign affairs.