George Graen

A Life of Leadership, Love, and Legacy

Pioneer in Organizational Psychology | Beloved Mentor | Visionary Scholar

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Dr. George Bearnard Graen, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, teacher, mentor, and pioneer in leadership studies. Dr. Graen passed away peacefully on July 6, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of knowledge, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those he loved and inspired.

Born on August 7, 1937, in Minneapolis, Minnesota to Clarence James Graen and Mary Elizabeth Kuhn Graen, Dr. Graen’s journey through life was one of brilliance, passion, and deep connections. He was a visionary in organizational psychology, forever changing the way we understand leadership through his Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) Theory. His work emphasized what he practiced every day—that relationships matter, that leadership is personal, and that true success is built on trust and respect.

Over his long and distinguished career, he authored more than 300 research papers. These works have garnered over 38,000 citations, reflecting his significant impact in the field of organizational psychology. Among his most influential and widely cited papers are:

- “Relationship-Based Approach to Leadership: Development of Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) Theory of Leadership over 25 Years” (with Mary Uhl-Bien)

- “A Vertical Dyad Linkage Approach to Leadership within Formal Organizations”

- “Generalizability of the Vertical Dyad Linkage Model of Leadership”

- “The Effects of Leader–Member Exchange and Job Design on Productivity and Satisfaction”

- “Role of Leadership in the Employee Withdrawal Process”

He also wrote 15 books that shaped the field, including:

1. Unwritten Rules for Your Career: The 15 Secrets for Fast-Track Success (1989)

2. New Frontiers of Leadership (2000)

3. Dealing with Diversity (2000)

4. New Frontiers of Leadership (2004)

5. Global Organizing Designs (2005, with Joan A. Graen)

6. Sharing Network Leadership (2006, with Joni Graen)

7. Jessica’s Web: Women’s Advantages in the Knowledge Era (2007)

8. New Multinational Network Sharing (2007, with Joni Graen)

9. Knowledge-Driven Corporation: Complex Creative Destruction (2008, with Joni Graen)

10. Predator's Game-Changing Designs: Research-Based Tools (2009, with Joni Graen)

11. Management of Team Leadership in Extreme Context: Defending Our Homeland, Protecting Our First Responders (2012, with Joni Graen)

12. Millennial Spring: Designing the Future of Organizations (2014, with Miriam Grace)

13. Leadership-Making (2014)

14. LMX Leadership: The Series (2014)

15. Intelligent Startup: A New Model of Coordination for Tomorrow’s Leaders (2022, with Julio Canedo)

Dr. Graen honorably served in the Army National Guard, demonstrating his dedication and commitment to our nation. His service was marked by his unwavering sense of duty and patriotism. On January 10, 1965, he was honorably discharged, having fulfilled his responsibilities with distinction and honor.

While his homeland was the United States, he traveled the globe testing his leadership theories in other countries and cultures. He shared this knowledge and passion with the students he mentored and taught at:

- University of Minnesota, as a graduate assistant

- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he guided countless students

- Keio University in Tokyo, Japan, where he expanded leadership studies across cultures

- University of Cincinnati, where his research flourished

- Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, where he brought his expertise to new generations

- University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where he continued inspiring young minds

Dr. Graen’s influence extended far beyond the classroom and research lab. He was a bridge-builder between theory and practice, often collaborating with industry leaders to apply his research in real-world settings. His insights helped shape leadership development programs in Fortune 500 companies and government agencies alike, always with the goal of creating more humane, effective, and inclusive workplaces.

Even in his later years, Dr. Graen remained a passionate learner. He embraced new technologies, explored emerging theories, and continued to write and mentor with the same vigor that marked his early career. His curiosity was boundless, and he inspired others to never stop asking questions or seeking better ways to lead and live.

But Dr. Graen was never just a professor. He was a teacher in every sense of the word, whether mentoring his students, guiding his sons through sports and education, or coaching kids in the neighborhood or youth sports. His lessons weren’t just about leadership theories—they were about life, perseverance, and finding joy in everyday moments.

Dr. Graen’s love of sports wasn’t just a pastime; it reflected his spirit. He played intramural softball with his college students and colleagues, led highly competitive family volleyball games in the backyard, and was the all-time quarterback in neighborhood street football games, playing with the kids until the sun dipped below the horizon. He believed in teamwork, fair play, and the magic of a well-thrown pass.

Those who knew Dr. Graen will remember his warm smile, quick wit, and the twinkle in his eye when telling a story or sharing a joke. He had a gift for making people feel seen and valued, whether in a lecture hall, a family gathering, or a casual conversation. His generosity—of time, wisdom, and spirit—touched countless lives.

Above all else, his family was his greatest pride. He was married to the love of his life, Joan Adeline Graen, for 59 beautiful years, who preceded him in death (March 9, 2018, two days after their 59th anniversary). Together, they built a home filled with laughter, learning, and unwavering support. His sons, Michael (Ruthie) Graen and Martin (Donna) Graen, were his pride and joy, but nothing compared to the deep and boundless love he had for his grandchildren: Stephanie, Andrew, Lauren, Jessica, and Joseph — they were his light. He celebrated every success, encouraged every dream, and cherished every hug. Two of his beloved grandchildren, Stephanie and Lauren, preceded him in death, and their memories remained close to his heart always.

Later in life, Dr. Graen found love and companionship again. In 2018, he married Margo, who survives him. Margo Graen was not only his wife but also his steadfast friend, partner, and caregiver. Her presence brought comfort, joy, and strength to his final years, and her devotion was a testament to the enduring power of love and companionship.

Dr. Graen often said, “Leadership is not about titles or power—it’s about relationships, responsibility, and respect.” These words, like the man himself, will continue to guide and inspire.

Dr. Graen’s impact will never fade. His research will continue to shape the world, his lessons will live on in his students, and his love will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.

A private memorial service will be held to honor his extraordinary life. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Graen Grant for Student Research on the Development of New Professional Knowledge Workers with the Society of Organizational Behavior

(https://portal.siop.org/donatenow?pid=a1BUt000004xt6QMAQ),

supporting education and leadership development—two things Dr. Graen held close to his heart.

This fund, established by Dr. Graen, supports graduate students conducting thesis or dissertation research related to leadership and the development of new professionals in knowledge-intensive organizations. The research should incorporate “design thinking”—a human-centered approach to innovation that emphasizes understanding human needs and creating meaningful experiences.

Please send acknowledgements to:

The Graen Team

16 Turnberry Lane

Pittsford, NY 14534

We will ensure the acknowledgement is shared with all of Dr. Graen’s family.

Dr. Graen taught us that great leaders build relationships, great teachers change lives, and great men leave the world better than they found it. He did all three.

Rest in peace, Dr. Graen (Dad, Grandad). Your love, wisdom, and laughter will never be forgotten.