When Emma Niewald (MGPS '26) graduated this spring, she followed in the footsteps of her father, Jim Niewald (MPAff '80), who earned his degree from the LBJ School 46 years earlier. Though they took different paths to the Forty Acres, both came to the LBJ School to better understand global challenges and drive meaningful change.
For Jim, the journey to LBJ began during the energy crisis of the 1970s, which drew him to public policy and energy issues. Emma arrived after more than a decade working in Texas politics with a renewed commitment to pursue a career in international affairs.
But her connection to The University of Texas started much earlier.
"One of my first memories was when my dad took me to campus and told me this is where I'd attend school someday," Emma said.
For both father and daughter, the LBJ School provided opportunities that would shape their careers for decades to come.
After graduation, Jim built a career in the energy sector, designing and implementing solar and energy-efficiency programs for the Tennessee Valley Authority before moving into management consulting, where he advised utilities across the United States and Canada. He later taught seminars on the electric power industry at Southern Methodist University and remains engaged with developments in the field during retirement.
Before coming to LBJ, Emma worked on campaigns ranging from local school board races to presidential campaigns and founded her own political consulting firm in 2019. After her graduation from the LBJ School, she accepted a Fulbright grant to research political finance frameworks and oversight mechanisms in Kosovo during the 2026-27 academic year.
Although the school has changed significantly since Jim's time as a student, one constant remains...
"The school has maintained its high academic standards and rigorous coursework," Jim said.
Attending the same graduate school as her father added another layer of depth to Emma’s experience. Throughout her time at the LBJ School, she often reflected on the example her father set and the role he played in guiding her path toward public service. During her studies, Emma developed a tradition of stopping by her father's class photo before exams for a bit of good luck.
"I can honestly say I don't think I would have pursued a career in policy if it weren't for my dad," Emma said.
Seeing that legacy carried forward has been especially meaningful for Jim.
"To me, it means that I have passed the baton to my talented and industrious daughter to solve some of the world's challenges," he said.
The Niewalds' story is a testament to the enduring impact of the LBJ School. Across generations, the school continues to equip students with the knowledge, skills and sense of purpose needed to serve their communities and tackle society's most pressing challenges.
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