Brown University Names John N. Friedman as Inaugural Dean of Watson School of International and Public Affairs

By Siya April 27, 2025
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Brown University, located in Rhode Island, United States, has appointed Professor John N. Friedman as the inaugural Dean of the newly established Thomas J. Watson Jr. School of International and Public Affairs. He will formally assume the role on 1 July 2025, leading the school’s efforts to shape education and research in global, national, and local public policy.

Professor Friedman, a distinguished academic in the fields of economics and public policy, has been a member of the Brown faculty since 2015. His research centres on policymaking, education, and social mobility – areas closely aligned with the new school’s mission. From 2021 to 2024, he served as Chair of the Department of Economics, during which time the department experienced significant growth, including a 30% rise in tenure-stream faculty and a notable increase in research output.

In a joint statement, Brown President Christina H. Paxson and Provost Francis J. Doyle III commended Professor Friedman’s “innovative leadership and exceptional academic record”, stating he is “well-positioned to guide the Watson School towards impactful research and meaningful interdisciplinary collaboration”.

Speaking about his appointment, Professor Friedman said:

“This new school presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to foster a truly interdisciplinary community of scholars, students, and practitioners committed to addressing the world’s most urgent issues in international and public affairs.”

Set to launch in 2025, the Watson School aims to become a global centre for research and teaching in public policy, politics, economics, and social issues. It will offer a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes designed to equip students for leadership roles in public service, policymaking, and international affairs.

Professor Friedman highlighted Brown’s collaborative academic environment as a key strength:

“Innovation thrives at the intersection of diverse perspectives. Brown’s culture of collaboration provides the ideal foundation for building a dynamic and inclusive academic community.”
The establishment of the Thomas J. Watson Jr. School marks a significant milestone for Brown University, reflecting the growing global relevance of education in international and public affairs.

Source: SHIKSHA

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