Julie Beasley joins faculty to specialize in leadership and management

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By Andy Bradshaw

The School of Government welcomes Julie Beasley to its faculty as an assistant professor of public administration and government. In her role—which she assumed in summer 2025—Beasley uses applied research to focus on human resource management in the public and nonprofit sectors, particularly workplace diversity and performance, organizational leadership, and civic engagement.

In her role, Beasley will work with UNC Master of Public Administration students as well as elected and unelected officials across North Carolina—collaborating with the Center for Public Leadership and Governance and the Local Government Workplaces Initiative.

Beasley first joined the School of Government in 2024 as an adjunct faculty member. Prior to doctoral studies, she spent nearly twenty years as a human resources and communications practitioner. She utilizes that experience in academic research, teaching, coaching and mentorship of students and professionals, and through service on the boards of local nonprofit organizations.

This past experience in these fields informs her expertise and equips Beasley for success moving forward, she said.

“I bring a unique perspective to academic research and teaching and training. I often say that I am now in my third career. Through my experience leading and working with many leaders, I have encountered both inspiring and challenging leadership styles. I draw upon these experiences to support both my MPA and practitioner teaching, as well as my academic research.”

The School’s practitioner-focused approach to education drew Beasley to join the faculty as the next step in her career. The chance to connect academia with tangible outcomes was one she could not refuse.

“I was drawn to the School of Government due to the opportunity to bridge theory and practice. I am passionate about research and making a contribution to the field of public administration, but feel that utilizing my research findings and practical experience to help shape current and future leaders is just as important.”

Beasley has received grant funding for her research from the National Science Foundation and AmeriCorps. In the School's Master of Public Administration Program, Beasley teaches Human Resource Management.

Beasley earned her Ph.D. in public affairs and MPA from the Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs at Indiana University, Bloomington.

Published September 12, 2025