LAWRENCE “LARRY” B. PULLEY ’74, P ’13, P ’15
Few individuals have left as profound an imprint on William & Mary as Lawrence “Larry” B. Pulley ’74, P ’13, P ’15. With a tenure spanning nearly four decades, including 24 years as dean of the Raymond A. Mason School of Business, Larry’s leadership has defined an era of innovation, growth and values-driven education at the university.
Larry earned his undergraduate degree in mathematics and economics from W&M in 1974, starting a lifelong connection to the Alma Mater of the Nation. After completing his doctorate in economics at the University of Virginia and teaching at Brandeis University, Larry returned to W&M in 1985 to teach managerial economics in the business school.
An inspiring mentor and teacher, he was recognized with several awards, including the Daniel C. Lewis Award for Exceptional Service and the Dean’s Executive MBA Teaching Award. Over the next 37 years, he dedicated himself to uplifting excellence at the university, serving as a professor and ultimately as dean of the business school for an extraordinary 24-year tenure from 1998 to 2022.
As dean, Larry was the architect of a new vision for business education at William & Mary. Under his helmsmanship, the school expanded its academic programs, including the introduction of five online degree programs and a residential Master of Science in Business Analytics. He championed naming the business school for Raymond “Chip” A. Mason ’59, L.H.D. ’98 and the construction of Alan B. Miller Hall, a state-of-the-art facility that brought undergraduate and graduate business students together, fostering collaboration and innovation. The $75 million project, funded largely by private donations, remains a testament to Larry’s ability to build lasting relationships and inspire support for the university’s mission.
His values-driven approach to leadership, rooted in “principled achievement,” emphasized preparing students to excel in their careers while making a meaningful impact on the world. He established initiatives such as the Executive Partners network, which connects business students with local industry leaders for mentorship and real-world career preparation. He also expanded veterans’ education, creating programs that empower those transitioning from military service to civilian careers.
Larry’s impact extends beyond the university. He currently serves on the Hospice House of Williamsburg and Williamsburg Health Foundation boards and served nearly 12 years on the Williamsburg Salvation Army board. He is a longtime member and adult Sunday School teacher at the Williamsburg Presbyterian Church.
Larry’s legacy is one of transformation, enduring impact and warmth of spirit. Through his leadership, he has not only elevated the Mason School of Business but also inspired generations of students and alumni to lead with integrity, creativity and purpose. Through his unparalleled dedication, Larry has cemented his place as a cornerstone of William & Mary’s enduring success through principled achievement.
Larry Pulley may be the most decent person I have ever met. Larry treats everyone with respect. Larry is unfailingly humble. Larry is kind in selfless ways that ask no reciprocity and decline recognition. Larry is honest and fair, and he has the courage to say the truths that need to be told. If William & Mary ever seeks to identify an archetype of what we aspire to be, we need look no further than Larry Pulley.
Todd A. Mooradian, Dean of the Raymond A. Mason School of Business