The Robert Strauss Center for International Security and Law joins the University of Texas community in mourning the loss and celebrating the life of I. Jon Brumley. Alongside his wife Rebecca, Jon’s generosity and kindness made a lasting impact on the lives of countless deserving University of Texas students.

Jon’s support changed the lives of so many talented, ambitious students at the University of Texas,” said Strauss Center Director Adam Klein. “Our university’s motto is, ‘What starts here changes the world.’ Jon’s positive influence on the world will long endure through the careers and achievements of the talented UT Austin students he and Becky have supported.”

At the Strauss Center, the Brumley legacy lives on through the Brumley Graduate Fellows and Undergraduate Scholars programs, which provide life-changing opportunities for a select group of elite UT Austin students. The Strauss Center’s Brumley programs train the next generation of leaders to confront the most pressing challenges facing our society. 

In the words of one recent undergraduate Brumley Scholar: “Without exaggeration, I can confidently say that being a Brumley Scholar was the singular best experience I had throughout college. Not only did it provide me with immense academic and professional development, but it also facilitated the formation of meaningful relationships that I cherish deeply.”

Jon and Rebecca’s deep commitment to young people shone through during their many trips to Austin over the years to meet the UT Austin students they supported. Jon’s kindness, curiosity, and humanity were evident in his deep interest in each student’s background, interests, and hopes for the future.

“Jon Brumley’s impact on the University of Texas was profound,” said Bobby Chesney, Dean of the University of Texas School of Law and former Director of the Strauss Center. “Generations of students have benefited from his and Becky’s generosity and kindness. He will be missed but never forgotten on the Forty Acres.”

The Strauss Center team, past and present, extends its deepest condolences to Rebecca, their children, and all those who knew and loved Jon. The Strauss Center is honored to steward the Brumley Fellows and Scholars programs as part of Jon’s enduring legacy, carrying forward his and Rebecca’s commitment to make a positive impact on our students and their world.