Lisa Harrington, a globally renowned supply chain expert and beloved colleague who served as a senior research scholar at the University of Maryland School of Public Policy Center for Public Policy and Private Enterprise—now the Center for the Governance of Technology and Systems (GoTech)—died November 11.
Harrington was widely regarded for her expertise in global supply chain strategy, logistics, technology and risk management. Her research helped advance areas critical to public policy, including defense, global health, disaster response, sustainability and the growing intersection of technology and supply chain resiliency. Her contributions helped elevate policy and practice in shaping supply chain governance and technological innovation.
She also previously served as associate director of the Robert H. Smith School of Business’s Supply Chain Management Center and as a faculty lecturer, sharing her expertise with students preparing to navigate a continually changing landscape. As a committed researcher and educator, Harrington inspired countless students, faculty and practitioners.
Beyond the University, Harrington was president of the lharrington group LLC, a woman-owned consulting firm that advised organizations across sectors, from NASA and the U.S. Agency for International Development to global companies such as FedEx and Microsoft. She also co-founded the Sustainable Supply Chain Foundation, bringing together scholars and industry leaders to strengthen supply chain practices worldwide. Harrington wrote hundreds of articles and co-authored three books that continue to inform policy and industry.
A great researcher and true champion for resilient and sustainable supply chains, Harrington was a mentor and trusted colleague to faculty, staff and students. She leaves behind a legacy shaped by curiosity, dedication and a belief in the difference informed policy can make.
On behalf of the entire University of Maryland community, the School of Public Policy extends our deepest sympathies to Lisa’s family, friends and colleagues. We welcome community members to share condolences and remembrances in the comments below.