The University of Pittsburgh’s School of Public and International Affairs honors the life and legacy of former dean Lawrence J. Korb, who passed away recently.
Korb served as dean during the 1980s, a formative period in the school’s history as the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs. His leadership reflected a deep connection between academic study and public service—an approach that continues to define SPIA today.
Beyond his time at Pitt, Korb was widely recognized for his work in national security and defense policy, including his service as Assistant Secretary of Defense. Across government, academia, and policy research, he remained an influential voice in public affairs throughout his career.
His tenure at GSPIA followed the school’s founding by Donald C. Stone and contributed to a broader legacy of leadership that has shaped generations of public servants and policy professionals.
SPIA honors his contributions to the school and to the field of public and international affairs, and extends its condolences to his family, colleagues, and all who were impacted by his work. For readers wishing to learn more about his life and legacy, please visit the official obituary here.