For recent 2025 Master of Public Affairs graduate Kaylah Glaspie, the LBJ School was more than a place to earn a degree. It was a space to explore a wide range of policy interests and prepare for a career centered on equity and community impact.
“What drew me to the LBJ School was the flexibility to shape my policy education around my diverse interests. I appreciated the wide range of electives that allowed me to both deepen my expertise in familiar areas and explore new policy fields that expanded my perspective.”
Two LBJ courses in particular shaped Glaspie’s approach to public policy. Nonprofit Management with Professor Francie Ostrower gave her insight into the strategic, operational, and ethical challenges faced by mission-driven organizations. Race and Urban Policy with Dr. Ana Oaxaca revealed the structural forces and historical patterns that shape urban life and social disparities.
“Together, these courses provided me with a more nuanced understanding of how public, private and community actors can work together to build a more equitable society.”
Today, Glaspie serves as the Global Community Affairs Associate at Applied Materials right here in Austin, Texas, where she leads employee and community engagement initiatives. She coordinates volunteer programs and company-wide campaigns through strategic partnerships with local nonprofits, bringing together corporate resources and community needs.
Understanding the history, systemic challenges and evolving needs of communities allows her to engage thoughtfully with nonprofit partners. The adaptability and strategic thinking honed through her coursework have proven essential, especially as shifting federal funding requires innovative new approaches to her work.
Glaspie says LBJ also taught her the importance of empathy and collaboration. She carries those lessons into her work as she builds initiatives that make a lasting impact for employees and the communities they serve.
“I see the impact of my LBJ education in my daily work through a deeper understanding of the historical and contextual nuances that shape communities and their identities.”
The courses, faculty guidance and real-world frameworks she gained at the LBJ School prepared her to navigate complex challenges and lead with purpose in her role at Applied Materials.
Learn more about the Master of Public Affairs program. Apply by December 1 for priority funding.