Thomas P. Lauth is the founding dean of the School of Public and International Affairs. In January of 2020, he was awarded the University of Georgia’s President’s Medal, an honor recognizing those who are not current employees of UGA but who have provided extraordinary support to UGA’s students, research and programs, as well as inspiration to community leaders.
Under Lauth’s leadership, SPIA quickly gained a reputation for excellence with world-renowned faculty, two research centers, multiple study abroad programs and highly successful students and alumni. Its public affairs graduate program continues to rank in the top ten in the nation. Lauth continues to contribute to the university as an Emeriti Scholar and serves on councils on campus as well as committees in the community.
Dean Lauth is passionate about meeting one of the School’s most pressing needs: funding for graduate student excellence. The Thomas P. and M. Jean Lauth Graduate Fellowship Fund provides support to recruit and retain top quality graduate students. Honor Dean Lauth’s legacy by giving to this fund and creating opportunities for future leaders in research and public service.
