08/04/2026
Today, we honor the life and legacy of John Lauder—a founding member of the Garfield Center for Public Leadership, devoted Hiram College alumnus, and dear friend of the program.
After graduating summa cm laude from Hiram College and earning a master's degree in International Relations from Yale University, John dedicated more than three decades to public service, including work with the CIA, the National Reconnaissance Office, and as a U.S. arms control negotiator. He brought that extraordinary experience back to Hiram, where he helped shape the GCPL into the program it is today.
John's impact extended far beyond the classroom. He played a pivotal role in establishing the GCPL's Washington, D.C. programming, helped launch our annual crisis simulation, mentored countless students, and remained a passionate member of the GCPL Advisory Board throughout his life. His enthusiasm, generosity, wisdom, and unwavering belief in the importance of thoughtful public leadership inspired everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
John's legacy will continue to live on through the students, alumni, and experiences that he helped make possible. We are profoundly grateful for his friendship and his many years of service to Hiram College and the Garfield Center for Public Leadership.
Thank you, John. You will be deeply missed and never forgotten.
