Jeremi Suri

Jeremi Suri holds the Mack Brown Distinguished Chair for Leadership in Global Affairs at The University of Texas at Austin, with dual appointments in the Department of History and the LBJ School of Public Affairs. As a prominent scholar bridging historical analysis and contemporary policy, he teaches graduate and undergraduate courses on strategy, leadership, and international affairs while directing the Executive Master in Public Leadership program (EMPL).

• Ph.D. in History, Yale University, 2001
• M.A. in History, Ohio University, 1996
• A.B. in History, Stanford University, 1994

Suri's research focuses on the intersection of historical patterns and contemporary governance challenges, particularly examining leadership, decision-making processes, and the evolution of American power. His work spans American political history, international relations, and organizational theory, with special emphasis on how historical legacies shape current political divisions and institutional effectiveness. Through his scholarship, he explores how nations rebuild after conflict, how leaders make critical decisions, and how democratic institutions can be strengthened.

His recent publications reveal a clear trajectory from studying presidential leadership to examining deeper historical roots of contemporary political divisions, particularly regarding race and democracy. Suri's articles and books consistently connect historical analysis with urgent present-day concerns, demonstrating how past conflicts continue to shape current political realities. His work on civil rights, nation-building, and presidential power provides critical context for understanding America's ongoing struggles with democracy and equality.

• Named one of America's "Top Young Innovators" in the arts and sciences by Smithsonian magazine (2007)
• Pro Bene Meritis Award for Contributions to the Liberal Arts (2018)
• President's Associates Teaching Excellence Award from University of Texas at Austin (2018)

Beyond his academic work, Suri is a prolific public intellectual who contributes regularly to major newspapers including the New York Times, Washington Post, and Los Angeles Times, and appears frequently in broadcast media. His podcast "This Is Democracy" extends his scholarly work into public discourse, examining democratic challenges through historical and contemporary lenses. His academic leadership extends to program development, particularly through the EMPL program, where he shapes the next generation of public leaders.