University of Pittsburgh Appoints Marla Ripoll as Interim Dean of School of Public and International Affairs

The University of Pittsburgh has appointed Dr. Marla Ripoll as the interim dean of its School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA), with her tenure set to begin this fall. The appointment comes as the university prepares to evaluate the school's strategic direction while ensuring continuity in academic leadership.

A respected economist and experienced academic administrator, Dr. Ripoll brings extensive expertise in research, teaching, and institutional governance to the interim role.

A Distinguished Academic and Experienced Leader

Dr. Ripoll currently serves as a Professor in the Department of Economics at the University of Pittsburgh. She is also a core faculty member of the Center for Latin American Studies and the Global Studies Program, reflecting her interdisciplinary approach to teaching and research.

Her previous leadership roles include serving as Chair of the Department of Economics and Director of Graduate Studies, where she contributed to academic planning, faculty development, and graduate education.

The appointment builds on her longstanding contributions to the university and her experience in leading academic initiatives across multiple disciplines.

Strong Research and Global Academic Engagement

Beyond her leadership responsibilities, Dr. Ripoll has established a distinguished research profile in economics. She serves as Associate Editor of the Journal of Macroeconomics and is a member of the advisory board of the Carnegie-Rochester-NYU Conference.

She also contributes to the Human Capital and Economic Opportunity Group and the Economics Research Network of the Central Bank of Colombia, demonstrating her active engagement in international academic and policy research.

Her academic journey began with a Bachelor of Arts from the National University of Colombia, followed by a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Rochester.

University Leadership Expresses Confidence

Announcing the appointment, Provost and Senior Vice Chancellor Joe McCarthy praised Dr. Ripoll's willingness to guide the school during the leadership transition.

He noted that her thoughtful leadership and extensive academic experience will help support SPIA's continued role within the University of Pittsburgh while broader strategic planning is underway.

Strategic Review to Shape SPIA's Future

Alongside the leadership appointment, the university announced plans to establish a stakeholder group that will assess the strengths, opportunities, and future priorities of the School of Public and International Affairs.

The review is expected to generate recommendations that will guide the school's long-term academic vision, strengthen its educational mission, and position SPIA for continued growth in an evolving public affairs and policy landscape.

About the University of Pittsburgh

Founded in 1787, the University of Pittsburgh is one of the United States' leading public research universities. Renowned for excellence in research, healthcare, public policy, engineering, business, and the humanities, the university serves students from around the world through its diverse academic programmes and globally recognised research initiatives.

The School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) prepares future leaders in public service, international affairs, public policy, and nonprofit management through interdisciplinary education, research, and community engagement.

Editor's Note

Interim appointments often serve as pivotal moments for academic institutions, offering both stability and an opportunity for reflection. Dr. Marla Ripoll's appointment comes at a time when schools of public affairs are navigating increasingly complex policy challenges shaped by economic uncertainty, technological change, and global interdependence. Her background in economics, interdisciplinary scholarship, and academic leadership provides a strong foundation for guiding SPIA through this transition while the University of Pittsburgh evaluates its long-term strategic priorities. Such leadership transitions underscore the growing importance of adaptable governance and evidence-based decision-making in higher education.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is the new interim dean of the University of Pittsburgh's School of Public and International Affairs?

Dr. Marla Ripoll has been appointed interim dean of the University of Pittsburgh's School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA).

2. When will Marla Ripoll begin her role as interim dean?

She is scheduled to assume the position beginning in the fall of 2026.

3. What is Marla Ripoll's current role at the University of Pittsburgh?

She is a Professor of Economics and a core faculty member of the Center for Latin American Studies and the Global Studies Program.

4. What leadership positions has Dr. Ripoll previously held?

She previously served as Chair of the Department of Economics and Director of Graduate Studies.

5. What are Dr. Ripoll's research interests and academic contributions?

She contributes to macroeconomics research, serves as Associate Editor of the Journal of Macroeconomics, and participates in several international research networks.

6. What are Dr. Ripoll's educational qualifications?

She earned her bachelor's degree from the National University of Colombia and a Ph.D. in Economics from the University of Rochester.

7. Why did the University of Pittsburgh appoint an interim dean?

The appointment ensures leadership continuity while the university evaluates SPIA's future priorities and long-term direction.

8. What is the purpose of the stakeholder review announced by the university?

The stakeholder group will assess SPIA's strengths and provide recommendations to help shape the school's future strategy and development.

9. What is the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA)?

SPIA is the University of Pittsburgh's school dedicated to education and research in public policy, international affairs, public administration, and nonprofit leadership.

10. What does this appointment mean for SPIA?

The appointment provides experienced academic leadership during a strategic review, supporting the school's continued focus on excellence in public affairs education and research.