Following an international search, Georgia Tech has appointed Amanda Murdie as the new dean of the Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts, effective June 1, 2025. Murdie currently serves as a Regents’ Professor, Georgia Athletic Association Professor of International Affairs, and the Head of the Department of International Affairs for the University of Georgia’s School of Public and International Affairs. 

"We are delighted to welcome Dr. Murdie to Georgia Tech," said Steve McLaughlin, provost and executive vice president for Academic Affairs. "Her extensive research in international relations and human rights, as well as her commitment to instructional excellence make her an ideal leader for Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts, a college recognized for its cross-disciplinary research, teaching, and service. We are confident that under her guidance, the College will soar to new heights as a global leader in liberal arts education." 

Murdie is a distinguished scholar in international relations, focusing on the behavior of international nongovernmental organizations and their interactions with states, local populations, and intergovernmental organizations. Her work on these topics has been published in numerous journals of note, including the American Political Science Review, Journal of Politics, British Journal of Political Science, and International Organization.  

Her research has advanced public understanding of human security, human rights, and conflict processes. In recognition of her contributions, Murdie received the 2023 Karl Deutsch Award from the International Studies Association – a prestigious award given to scholars “judged to have made (through a body of publications) the most significant contribution to the study of International Relations and Peace Research.” 

Beyond her scholarly work, Murdie has demonstrated a commitment to academic mentorship and development. As the University of Georgia’s department head of International Affairs since 2018, she has fostered a collaborative environment and supported the professional development of faculty and students. She has also served as editor-in-chief of the International Studies Review and co-edited University of Georgia Press’ Studies in Security and International Affairs Book Series. 

Murdie earned her Ph.D. in political science from Emory University, M.A. in political science from Kansas State University, and B.S. in political science and international studies from Kansas State University. Her interdisciplinary background and dedication to bridging the liberal arts and technological fields align with Georgia Tech's mission to develop leaders who advance technology and improve the human condition. 

As dean, Murdie will oversee Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts' broad portfolio of academic programs that includes 10 bachelor’s degrees, 14 master’s degrees, and six Ph.D. programs. She will also work to strengthen and expand the college’s research initiatives and community partnerships, further enhancing its role as a model of liberal arts education within a technological university. Her appointment affirms Georgia Tech's commitment to the expansion of interdisciplinary education and research. 

"The Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts is revolutionizing what we think is possible in higher education,” said Murdie. “The College’s faculty, staff, and students demonstrate how foundational, transformative, and limitless the liberal arts are for the overall success of the Institute. I’m thrilled to be part of such a vibrant community and excited to help guide the College. The complexity of the problems we are facing and the revolutionary nature of the tools we have now means that the need for the liberal arts at Georgia Tech has never been greater." 

Dean Murdie succeeds Richard Utz, who has served as interim dean since April 2024 and will continue to serve in the role until June 1.  

“Since stepping into the interim role, Richard has led Ivan Allen College with impressive clarity,” said Provost McLaughlin. “He has served as a model of excellence in leadership and returns to his roles of senior associate dean and professor having supported his college through a critical moment of change. We are incredibly grateful to him and know that Dean Murdie will step into her new role in a college that has been well cared for.”  

Writer: Brittany Aiello, Faculty Communications Program Manager, Executive Communications, Institute Communications