AUSTIN, Texas—The University of Texas at Austin Interim Executive Vice President and Provost Dan Jaffe announced the appointment of RGK Center Director and University Distinguished Professor David Springer of the LBJ School of Public Affairs to serve as the school's interim dean beginning in January 2021.
"Dr. Springer will serve as a steady and dedicated leader who understands the mission of the LBJ community well," said Interim Provost Jaffe in an email to the University community. "Dr. Springer has over 20 years of experience at UT, has a distinguished teaching and research record and has held multiple leadership roles."
Springer will take over for Dean Angela Evans, who announced that she will be retiring at the end of the year. They will work together to prepare for the upcoming transition and ensure the LBJ School is a place where students can safely learn and grow professionally, and where faculty continue to advance policy research.
"My commitment to you in the coming months is to value, support, and respect your expert knowledge, unique strengths and diverse experiences." —David Springer
Springer served 10 years as associate dean in the Steve Hicks School of Social Work. He has also served as interim associate dean for academic strategies in the LBJ School and as dean of the Portland State University School of Social Work.
Bridging direct practice and public policy, Dr. Springer's research and teaching coalesce around effective leadership, nonprofits, and systems to strengthen communities. He has received a number of university-wide teaching awards, including the Outstanding Graduate Teaching Award, Outstanding Graduate Adviser Award and he was inducted into UT’s Academy of Distinguished Teachers in 2005. He has co-authored or co-edited 14 books and has been recognized as among the 100 most influential social work journal authors and was selected as a Fellow of the Society for Social Work and Research.
"I am humbled and honored to serve the LBJ School of Public Affairs as the Interim Dean beginning January 2021," said Springer. "My commitment to you in the coming months is to value, support, and respect your expert knowledge, unique strengths and diverse experiences. I will do my part along with the entire LBJ School community to continue our vital work cultivating an ever more just and civil society."