in memoriam
their light lives on
John, an accountant and deacon, died Dec. 26, 2022.
He served as a meteorologist on the USS Essex aircraft carrier, earned eight battle stars, was admitted into the Navy officers’ candidate program, and attended Princeton University, Swarthmore, and the University of Pennsylvania. John earned his accounting degree at the University of Richmond, retired from Reynolds Metals Co. after 41 years, and served for many years as deacon, adult Sunday school teacher, and chair of numerous committees at Bon Air Baptist Church.
Lois, a painter, volunteer, and Unitarian Universalist, died Nov. 27, 2022.
She attended Yale for a year after earning her history degree at Swarthmore, and moved with her late husband, Sandy, to Massachusetts where he taught at MIT. They raised their children and were involved in local politics and the Unitarian church. Following Sandy’s passing, Lois remained in Henniker, N.H., where they’d retired, serving on the regional planning commission before moving in 1992 to Havenwood Heritage Heights in Concord, N.H.
Betsy, a psychiatrist with an interest in performing arts, died Aug. 27, 2022.
After earning her biology degree at Swarthmore, where she was a member of the Drama Board, College Dancers, and Studio Art Group, Betsy earned her master’s and medical degree in 1944 from the University of Chicago. In 1974, she earned a master’s of public health from the University of Hawaii–Manoa, and later retired as a psychiatrist for Hawaii’s Department of Human Services.
Mary, a remedial reading teacher, died Jan. 23, 2023.
A graduate and lifelong supporter of Swarthmore, she earned a Ph.D. in education from Temple University and taught remedial reading in Philadelphia before moving to New York City with her late husband, Kurt, a businessman, art dealer, and artist. Mary was his able assistant, becoming knowledgeable about African, European Renaissance, and early 20th-century art, and moving to Baltimore in 2009 to be closer to family.
Mentor Robert, a surgeon and medical volunteer, died July 15, 2022
As part of the Navy’s V-12 program during WWII, he attended Haverford and Swarthmore colleges, Ohio State University, and Jefferson Medical College, and while a surgical resident participated in the first successful open-heart surgery using the heart-and-lung machine. Robert practiced surgery for more than 30 years and was instrumental in founding the burn unit at Miami Valley Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. Upon retirement, he volunteered overseas, including 10 years in China where he helped build a surgical residency program.
David, a former mayor of Pequannock, N.J., died Jan. 10, 2023.
An engineering graduate of the College, where he was a member of varsity swimming, track & field, and Phi Delta Theta, he worked at Curtiss-Wright, an aviation manufacturing company, after graduation, much later retiring as an administrator at John Deere Co. David entered politics in the 1950s, serving as a council person, mayor, and as chairman of the Pequannock (N.J.) Zoning Board.
Nancy, a die-hard Giants fan and librarian, who lived in poet T.S. Eliot’s former home, died Feb. 14, 2023.
She enrolled in Swarthmore at 16, earning a bachelor’s with Honors in political science, then a bachelor’s in library science from University of California–Berkeley and a master’s in international relations from Claremont Graduate School in 1970. In the 1960s, Nancy joined the Congress of Racial Equality, campaigned for Eugene McCarthy’s presidential bid, and supported Berkeley’s free speech movement, among many other causes. She worked as a librarian until her
1995 retirement.
Richard, a statistician, died Jan. 24, 2023.
He graduated Phi Beta Kappa with a bachelor’s in chemistry, was a member of Sigma Chi, and earned a certificate in civil engineering at the University of Kentucky–Lexington. Richard later earned a Ph.D. in statistics and probability from the University of Chicago, which he retired from much later.
Gloria, who was inducted in the Swarthmore Athletic Hall of Fame,
died Feb. 11, 2023.
She graduated from Swarthmore, where she captained the varsity tennis and badminton teams. She was three-time Middle States Intercollegiate tennis champion, two-time national senior women’s (40+) champion, and won the American Platform Tennis Association National Champion three times, becoming the association’s first executive director. Gloria was the promotional marketing director for the New Jersey Devils NHL team, was inducted into multiple athletic halls of fame, and served on a number of boards.
Michael, a psychology professor and enthusiastic mountaineer, died Dec. 23, 2022.
He graduated with high Honors, earned a master’s from Johns Hopkins University, and Ph.D. in psychology from Harvard University. He accepted
a faculty position at the University
of Colorado in 1955, where he focused on the history of psychology. Michael was very involved in the Psi Chi psychology undergraduate organization; served in various roles at the American Psychological Association; and produced books, articles, reviews, and presentations, including a personal memoir, Facets of an Academic’s Life.
Virginia, a teacher and musician, died Jan. 11, 2023.
She attended the College, graduating with a bachelor’s from Florida State University and a master’s degree from the University of Kansas. She first taught music, then third and fourth grade, then worked with the Young Adult Conservation Corps, at the Bob Sikes Airport, and the Clerk of Court office. Virginia was a member of the First United Methodist Church, where she served as a teacher and in the choir and was the church pianist.
Winifred, a retired pension consultant, died Jan. 26, 2023.
At the College, she was on the Drama Board, in the choir, worked with WSRN, and earned her bachelor’s in English literature. She then attended Rider University (N.J.) for secretarial skills.
Winifred worked with General Signal Corp., Stamford, Conn., and became a pension consultant after retirement.
Morgan, 93, a member of Phi Delta Theta, died Sept. 26, 2021.
He attended Swarthmore and was
a member of Phi Delta Theta.
Edith, a volunteer and synchronized swimmer, died Oct. 4, 2022.
She participated in many activities at Swarthmore, including synchronized swimming, the College Chorus, and the varsity women’s golf team. Edith attended the Northern Virginia Community College for business, earned her bachelor’s in math from University of California–Berkeley, and was a lifelong volunteer.
Patricia, a science teacher, died Nov. 15, 2022.
She attended Swarthmore, earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Florida Atlantic University in 1975, and retired as a science teacher from Broward County Public Schools. At the College, Patricia was a member of the varsity swimming and softball teams as well as being part of The Phoenix.
Allen, an emeritus professor who studied mammalian placentas, died Feb. 21, 2022.
He graduated with Honors in biology, was a member of varsity lacrosse and Phi Sigma Kappa, and went on to earn a master’s and Ph.D. in biology at Harvard University. Allen was an emeritus professor at University of California-Davis, studied the development and mature structure of the mammalian placenta, and was honored with a special issue of The International Journal of Developmental Biology.
Dick, who was proud of being Mr. August in the Men of Maple Corner fundraising calendar, died Jan. 8, 2023.
A veteran of WWII, he earned his bachelor’s at Swarthmore, master’s at the University of Chicago, and a Ph.D. at Fielding Graduate University, all in psychology. He worked as a psychologist and dean of students at California School of the Arts. Upon retirement, Dick and his wife relocated to Vermont where he was a Vermont Reparative Justice board member and operations manager of the Green Mountain Film Festival, as well as a founding member of the Montpelier area Seasoned Souls discussion group on aging.
Bob, an engineer known as the
“Puzzle Man,” died Dec. 5, 2022.
A Swarthmore engineering graduate, he served in the Army for two years before starting a 44-year career as a civil engineer with Turner Construction and raising a family with wife Joan in Ossining, N.Y. In retirement, Bob enjoyed being outside and caring for his home until he relocated to a Texas retirement community in 2018, where he used his engineering skills to solve difficult puzzles.
Mary Ann, mother, volunteer, and
Time Inc. editor, died Dec. 1, 2022.
After graduating with a political science degree, she set out for New York City and became a researcher and editorial assistant at Life and Time magazines, while later in her career she was assistant to the managing editor at TV-Cable Week and worked at Fortune, among others. Mary Ann volunteered for many local organizations including the Cub Scouts, the Junior League, and as director of the Sunday school at First Congregational Church.
Psychiatrist Joe, survivor of the deadly shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue, died Jan. 10, 2023.
He graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Swarthmore and received his medical degree from University of Pennsylvania, continuing to study psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh and Western Psychiatric Institute, where he later taught. He retired as director of clinical services at Woodville State Hospital, and after retirement, volunteered at the American Civil Liberties Union and the Community Day School as well as being active in the Tree of Life synagogue.
faculty & staff
DeLois M. Collins, who with her husband, directed the Swarthmore College Upward Bound Program for more than 30 years, died Dec. 31, 2022. She was 88.
Elizabeth J. Corbitt, who worked as an Environmental Services Technician at the College for 28 years, died Dec. 24, 2022. She was 75.
McIver Edwards, a Scott Arboretum volunteer, died Jan. 13, 2023. He was 87.
Joanne Elliot, a mathematician who began her career at Swarthmore, died March 5, 2023. She was 98.
Eileen Joan McElrone, who worked as an administrative assistant at the College for over 25 years, died April 3, 2023. She was 74.
Ollie Rae VanDyke, who worked for more than 30 years at the College, died Feb. 13, 2023. She was 86.
Burt, a rocket scientist and music lover, died Feb. 15, 2023.
He was an electrical engineering student at Swarthmore, a top lacrosse player, and member of Delta Upsilon. Burt was hired by General Electric, where he was involved in the development of missile control systems for submarines. He had a large photo library and camera collection and was an early member of the Berkshire Folk Music Society at the Unitarian church, where local musicians would gather and he sometimes sang.
Sarah, a nurse and multi-sport College athlete who played tennis into her 80s, died March 2, 2023.
After she earned her bachelor’s in history, she received a bachelor’s in nursing from Columbia University, married, and had children before moving with her family in 1977 to Chapel Hill, N.C. Sally worked at the University of North Carolina’s hospital as a nurse until her retirement, and volunteered with the North Carolina Botanical Gardens, hospice, and the Chapel Hill Public Library.
John, a civil engineer, died Sept. 15, 2021.
He earned his engineering degree and was a veteran of the Korean War, member of the Seabees, and full commander when he retired from the Naval Reserves. A retired civil engineer for Exxon Corp., John enjoyed classical music, stamp collecting, sailing, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. He was a member of the Fort Lauderdale (Fla.) Rotary Club.
Penny, an artist and member of the Raging Grannies, died March 5, 2022.
She attended Swarthmore and earned her bachelor’s of fine arts from the Pratt Institute, later studying calligraphy at the University of Massachusetts. She was a member of the Rhode Island Watercolor Society, the Wickford Art Association, and Mass Scribes. In the 1980s, Penny started Ahmisa Graphics. She also worked throughout her life to champion peace, nonviolence, and the environment. She was a Buddhist and a Quaker.
David, a sailor and art restorer, died Oct. 13, 2021.
He attended Swarthmore, studied medicine, and graduated from Yale University with a fine arts degree. David was self-employed for more than 50 years in the field of fine art restoration. He was also a pianist, played golf, sang in the church choir, and had a passion for sailing on his boat, Stardust.
Robert, a sailor and engineer, died
Jan. 10, 2023.
After earning his engineering degree at Swarthmore, where he was on the varsity tennis, softball, football, and soccer teams, he earned a master’s at Drexel University; served in the Army during the Korean War; and worked for Blakeslee Prestress for almost 35 years, before opening his own concrete business. Robert loved tennis and sailing, learning to sail at the Beach Haven Yacht Club in New Jersey and owning five sailboats over his lifetime.
David, engineer and athlete, died March 6, 2023.
A member of the varsity football and lacrosse teams, he graduated with a bachelor’s in biology at Swarthmore, where he met his wife, Bonnie Brown Harvey ’54. The couple moved to Swarthmore in 1967 and David worked for many years as an engineer at Scott Paper Co.
Bob, a former professor of politics
and history at Curry College, died Jan. 15, 2023.
After earning his bachelor’s in history, he received his master’s and Ph.D. in political science from the University of Pennsylvania, taught in higher education, and had a 55-year career teaching politics and history at Curry College, where the Keighton Fund was established in his honor. Bob was an accomplished author, painter, musician, singer, composer, and poet, with a lifelong passion for historic preservation.
Stanley, music publisher and promoter of the “Chicken Dance,” died Dec. 29, 2022.
He earned a history degree, was senior class president, and was part of WSRN. He worked with his father after graduation at Mills Music, then moved on to EMI Music Publishing, then E.B. Marks, now Carlin-America. Stanley started September Music and Galahad Music in 1968, representing some influential songs like “Cara Mia,” “My Melody of Love,” and the “Chicken Dance,” selling his companies to Memory Lane Music in 2015.
Jean, a College athlete and Hamburg Show participant, died Dec. 28, 2022.
She attended Swarthmore, where she was on the varsity lacrosse, swimming, and field hockey teams as well as participating with The Hamburg Show and WSRN. Jean earned her bachelor’s in 1981 from Johns Hopkins University and worked at Park School of Baltimore.
Author and memoirist Radha died Nov. 5, 2022.
She attended Swarthmore and earned a bachelor’s from Scripps College and a master’s from the University of California–Berkeley in comparative literature. Radha was the author of Lives in the Shadow with J. Krishnamurti, a 1991 memoir of the long, intimate, and contentious relationship of her family with the Indian philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti.
Gene, a pathologist, musician, and member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, died Jan. 3, 2023.
He graduated with a biology degree and went on to attend Hahnemann Medical College in Philadelphia, eventually working in the pathology department at Chester County Hospital, from which he retired in 2001. He was a member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (1971–2009) and performed in various bands including The Moonlighters and the Merion Concert Band.
Frank, a physicist, died Aug. 1, 2021.
He graduated with a bachelor’s in mathematics and went on to attend Brown University, where he also studied mathematics. A physicist, Frank worked for the U.S. National Bureau of Standards.
Nancy, mother of six, artist, and pianist, died May 7, 2022.
She attended the College and received her bachelor’s in education from William Paterson University. In addition to caring for her six children, Nancy was a real estate agent, a nurse’s aide, an artist, and a pianist. She also enjoyed sewing, knitting, painting, hooking rugs, and watching Jeopardy!.
Tom, a Foreign Service member who was conversant in eight languages, died Feb. 3, 2023.
He earned his bachelor’s and Ph.D. in political science from Swarthmore and Princeton University, respectively, and joined the Foreign Service with overseas postings in Afghanistan, Iran, India, Morocco, Brazil, and Pakistan. After retiring from the State Department in 1990, he continued to advocate and research on behalf of Afghanistan. He also sang bass in a number of choral groups and played trombone.
Marcia, a singer and mother, died Aug. 21, 2022.
She attended Swarthmore, where
she was a member of the College Chorus and the Women’s Athletic Association, and in 1986 earned her bachelor’s in psychology from University of Maryland–College Park. Marcia worked as a manager for her husband, Carl H. Keller, a psychiatrist.
Victor, former editor of The Nation and Board of Managers member, died Jan. 23, 2023.
He graduated with High Honors, earning a bachelor’s in political science and international relations, and went on to earn his law degree from Yale, going on to write for The New York Times. Victor assumed editorship of The Nation in 1978, later becoming part owner, and was named publisher emeritus in 2005. He taught at Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, directed its George T. Delacorte Center for Magazine Journalism, and chaired The Columbia Journalism Review.
Martin, economist and cross-country runner, died Oct. 24, 2022.
He earned a bachelor’s in mathematics with Honors and was a member of the cross-country varsity team, the Drama Board, and the Math Club. He earned a master’s and Ph.D. in economics from University of Michigan–Ann Arbor. Martin was emeritus professor of economics at University of Wisconsin–Madison, a contractor with the Urban Institute, and a research professor at the University of Maryland–College Park.
Miriam, a businesswoman, died Nov. 29, 2022.
She earned a bachelor’s in political science where she met future husband, Mel. After marrying, she taught elementary school until the family moved to Bronxville, N.Y., where she opened a gift shop with two other women. In 1980, Miriam sold her share of the store and worked as an office manager and secretary in a number of businesses until her 1995 retirement. She and Mel then moved to Williamsburg, Va., where she volunteered at Colonial Williamsburg.
Bruce, a Phi Beta Kappa member, died Aug. 13, 2021.
Named to Phi Beta Kappa, he earned his bachelor’s in Russian.
Virginia, homemaker and philosophy major, died Sept. 17, 2021.
She earned her bachelor’s in philosophy; was a member of the women’s varsity field hockey team, The Phoenix, and the Women’s Athletic Association; and met her former husband, Richard ’56, at Swarthmore. Virginia also earned a master’s of religion at Columbia University and was a mother of eight.
Libby, retired head of Swarthmore’s Circulation Department, died Jan. 8, 2023.
She majored in history at the College, where she met husband Rudy ’57, and then earned a master’s of library science from Rutgers before working as an assistant cataloger at Bryn Mawr College. Libby came to the Swarthmore College Libraries in 1967, working in the Cataloging and Circulation departments, and in 1991 became head of the Circulation Department, retiring in 1998. She was an avid reader and talented knitter.
Jimmie, an educator and retired assistant superintendent, died July 3, 2021.
She earned her bachelor’s in English literature and was a member of the varsity swim team, College Chorus, and Drama Board. A retired assistant superintendent at Fountain Valley School District in California, Jimmie had two children and master’s degrees from Lehigh University and California State University–Long Beach.
Hillyer, an educator and organist, died March 3, 2023.
He attended the College and graduated from the University of South Carolina with a double major in German and English, taught at various private schools, and was the headmaster of 12 independent schools. Hillyer was the corporate secretary of the S.C. Independent School Association for 25 years, was founder and president of a real estate company, and was an organ builder and an organist.
Kent, a scholar and thought leader on civil liberties, died Jan. 27, 2023.
He earned his bachelor’s in political science, a Ph.D. from Oxford University in philosophy, and his law degree from Columbia Law School, where he became an assistant professor in 1965, spending 60 years as a member of faculty. In recognition of the impact of his work, Kent was named University Professor, Columbia’s highest academic honor, in 1991, and held the title for more than 30 years.
John, a pioneer in computer-based teaching tools, died Feb. 20, 2023.
He earned his bachelor’s from Cornell University, a master’s in psychology from the College, and a Ph.D. on a National Science Foundation fellowship at Cornell. A cognitive psychologist, John authored PsychWorld, was a researcher at the Cornell Aeronautical Laboratory and a professor at various institutions, including in the Department of Psychology at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, until his 1997 retirement.
Carol, a scholar of 19th and 20th century U.S. women writers, died Jan. 3, 2023.
After Swarthmore, she earned a master’s in education and a Ph.D. in American studies at the University of Pennsylvania, becoming a professor at Penn State University–Brandywine. Carol focused her scholarship on U.S. women writers and received the Women’s Commission Woman of the Year Award and the Madlyn L. Hanes Faculty Award. Upon retirement, she moved back to Maine, volunteered, and served as the acting Healy Professor at the Maine Women Writers Collection at the University of New England.
Steve, a mathematician, genealogist, and athlete, died Aug. 19, 2021.
A double major in math and economics, he earned his Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Michigan and joined the faculty of the School of Mathematics at the University of Minnesota in 1967. In his retirement, Steve continued his father’s genealogy work; was a carpenter and craftsman; and continued to compete on the ballfield, eventually with the Super Senior softball team, traveling the country for national tournaments in the 80-plus age group.
Cindy, who had a notable career in public service, died Dec. 13, 2022.
She attended Swarthmore, Bryn Mawr College, and Johns Hopkins University; worked as Ellensburg’s city manager and deputy mayor of Seattle; and went on to manage a nonprofit working to improve the health and safety of city youth. Cindy loved traveling, splitting her retirement time between Port Townsend, Wash., and La Paz, Mexico, as well as interior decorating, architectural design, sewing, knitting, and cooking.
Rosemary, mother of four, died Oct. 10, 2022.
She earned her bachelor’s in mathematics, and was a Peaslee Scholar, a member of College Chorus, and involved with WSRN. She also attended the Institute for European Studies.
Win, a social worker and father, died Jan. 10, 2022.
He earned a bachelor’s from Swarthmore and a master’s in social work from the University of Pittsburgh, later working as deputy assistant director for special services for children in New York City, where he computerized the records of all the children in the city’s foster care system. Win was a longtime driver for a car service in Park Slope, N.Y., working two jobs to support his family.
Mary, a college administrator,
gardener, and outdoorswoman, died Dec. 27, 2022.
After earning her bachelor’s in Greek with High Honors, she earned a Ph.D. at Cornell University and taught at Williams College as well as at North Adams State College, now MCLA, before serving as its dean of graduate and continuing education until her retirement. Mary served on the Williamstown Planning Board and North Adams Regional Hospital Board of Trustees in Massachusetts; was a member of the Bennington Garden Club and the Bennington chapter of the American Association of University Women in Vermont; and summited every peak in the North Berkshires.
Allan, a lover of rock ’n’ roll and baseball, died Jan. 20, 2023.
He attended the College, eventually completing his bachelor’s at Temple University and his MBA at Harvard University. Allan served in the Army National Guard, worked briefly for the State of Vermont, and started his own business, Allan N. Mackey Associates, in 1975. For 40 years, he helped organizations manage difficult transitions, including supporting
the Federated States of Micronesia in preparation for its 1979 independence.
Mary Jean, an avid walker, reader, and knitter, died Feb. 1, 2023.
She earned her bachelor’s in history with distinction from Swarthmore and became a novitiate the same year in the Community of St. Mary. She became a sister in 1962; taught Latin, math, and science at St. Mary’s School, Peekskill, N.Y., until it closed in 1977; and was elected Mother Superior of the Eastern Province in 1986, serving until 1996. Mary Jean’s essays were published as Living the Christian Story in 2000.
Madge, a multi-sport athlete, died
Oct. 28, 2022.
A history graduate, she was a member of the varsity field hockey, basketball, and golf teams at Swarthmore; attended Goldey-Beacom College for office administration; and worked for the DuPont Company for 36 years. Madge was a lifetime member of Grace Methodist Church, an avid golfer, tennis player, bowler, and traveler.
Mary, who was dedicated to her family and civic endeavors, died Aug. 27, 2022.
She attended the College and earned her bachelor’s and law degrees from Loyola University. She chaired the Louisiana Tax Commission; Board of Liquidation, City Debt; Xavier University board; and Advocates for Science and Mathematics Education board. Mary also served in the administrations of New Orleans mayors Moon Landrieu and Sidney Barthelemy, as a lobbyist for the city in the Louisiana Legislature, and was a delegate to the 1973 Louisiana Constitutional Convention.
Roger, a retired aerospace engineer, died June 27, 2022.
He earned an engineering degree at Swarthmore after earning a bachelor’s in economics from Franklin & Marshall College in 1952. He was a retired senior engineer from the Aerospace Corp. His children also attended Swarthmore: Roger Roney ’82 and Lorna Roney Joachim ’85.
Bob, a sailor and engineer, died March 5, 2023.
He attended the College, earned a structural engineering degree at George Washington University, and a master’s of engineering from Catholic University of America. He ran a successful engineering firm, Robert Theobald and Associates, and maintained his interest in boating by sailing the Chesapeake Bay with late wife Mary. Bob was an insatiable reader, had a passion for woodworking and bridge, and was devoted to the Episcopal church.
Hugo, a lifelong athlete and investment analyst, died Nov. 2, 2021.
He earned his bachelor’s in economics and was class president as well as a member of the lacrosse team and Delta Upsilon. After earning a master’s from George Washington University, he worked as an investment analyst with Federated Investors and C.S. McKee. Hugo was a Bridge Life Master; played golf and tennis; and enjoyed traveling, fly fishing, running, and bicycling.
Dick, a family man, bird expert, and professor, died Dec. 31, 2022.
He earned his bachelor’s in biology with highest Honors and was a member of Phi Beta Kappa and the varsity baseball, football, and swimming teams. He went on to earn his master’s and Ph.D. at Harvard University. Dick was a professor of biology at Washington University, where he directed the Tyson Research Center, and was published in American Birds journal. He celebrated his 60th wedding anniversary with wife Mary Sargent Coles ’62.
Barry, a food lover and entrepreneur, died Jan. 7, 2023.
He attended the College; was drafted into the U.S. Army; and in 1965, began a career with Wawa, helping to build it into an East Coast convenience store and gas station chain. In the 1990s, he married and moved to New Hampshire, opening K.C. Wildberry Bagel and later launching New Hampshire’s Edible White Mountains magazine. Over the years, he served on West Chester Borough Council and the board of Family Services of Chester County, drove patients to medical appointments, and volunteered at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center.
Carolyn, a librarian, who served in the Peace Corps, died Dec. 14 2022.
She earned her bachelor’s in political science and then joined the Peace Corps in the Philippines. Upon returning to the U.S., she earned a master’s in education and later a master’s in library science from Columbia University. Carolyn worked for many years as a college librarian and then as the head librarian at the California Institution for Men, a prison in Chino, Calif., from which she retired in 2000. She also loved to read, do crossword puzzles, and crochet.
Peter, a lawyer, arbitrator, and mediator, died Feb. 16, 2023.
He earned his bachelor’s in political science and went on to earn a law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. He was a U. S. Navy officer, including in Da Nang, Vietnam, and received the Navy Achievement Medal. Peter practiced law for many years in Washington, D.C., including as a partner in Latham & Latham, authored a number of books, and served as an arbitrator and mediator for the American Arbitration Association.
Stanley, a teacher and therapist, died Jan. 28, 2023.
He earned a bachelor’s in English literature, was on the Phoenix, and was a member of the Folk Dance Club. He later attended the University of Hawaii–Manoa, worked as a therapist and teacher, and lived in Denmark, where he founded the Stanley Rosenberg Institute.
Helen, a professional English horn player, died Jan. 22, 2023.
She earned her bachelor’s in German with distinction and attended Harvard University, leaving her studies to pursue a career in music. Helen’s first position was as an English hornist in the New Orleans Symphony, followed by playing with the Houston Symphony, the Santa Fe Opera, and the Louisiana Philharmonic of which she was a founding member. She was also a lifetime member of the American Federation of Musicians and an oboe instructor at Loyola University from 1970 until her retirement.
Maria, the first female chief of endocrinology at Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital, died June 19, 2022.
After earning her biology degree at Swarthmore, she earned her medical degree at Temple University Medical School, where she met late husband, James. The couple served in the U.S. Army at Walter Reed Medical Center during the Vietnam War and eventually Maria became, in the early 1980s, the first female (and longest-serving) chief of endocrinology at Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital, retiring in 2016. She also served patients in prison and with mental illness patients through her work at Shattuck Hospital.
Tom, an oceanographer, died Feb. 14, 2022.
He earned his bachelor’s in chemistry with Honors, was on the varsity track and field and cross-country teams, and participated in the Phoenix and Halcyon. Tom earned a master’s in chemistry from Yale University and retired as an oceanography instructor at the University of Hawaii.
Steve, a business owner and medical expert witness, died Nov. 10, 2021.
He earned his bachelor’s in chemistry, played varsity baseball, and went on to own businesses in Florida, including Florida Medicolegal Malpractice Consultants.
Cay, an educator and administrator, died Feb. 9, 2023.
After earning her bachelor’s with distinction, she went on to receive her master’s and Ph.D. in English literature from Ohio University, where she was a faculty member for 27 years. In 1987, Cay joined Shawnee State University as the special assistant for accreditation and institutional assessment. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Waverly, volunteered in the Bristol Village library, and participated in Cornell University’s Project FeederWatch.
Susan, a professor of world literature, died Feb. 26, 2023.
She earned her bachelor’s at Swarthmore and a Ph.D. at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she served as director of its Institute for Research in the Humanities, chaired its English Department, and was a founding member of its Women’s Studies Program. Susan was the recipient of many honors, including the Perkins Prize for best book in narrative studies, the Wayne C. Booth Lifetime Achievement Award, and numerous teaching awards.
Bill, a champion of teachers and bookstore co-owner, died Jan. 5, 2023.
After earning his chemistry degree at Swarthmore, he earned his master’s and Ph.D. in agricultural economics at The Ohio State University, after which he worked briefly with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to mitigate the effects of the Vietnam War. Bill had a 40-year career at Ford Motor Credit Co., was a member of the Bedford Public Schools Board of Education in Michigan, and was a co-owner with his wife of Thackeray’s Bookstore.
Christine, a biologist and research technician, died Aug. 25, 2021.
She was an RA at Swarthmore, where she received her bachelor’s in biology before earning a master’s in biology from Thomas Jefferson University in 1974. She was a research technician at Howard Hughes Medical Institute and retired as a research technician from the Carnegie Institute of Washington.
Janet, an educator and attorney, died Nov. 30, 2022.
She earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in English literature from Swarthmore and the University of Illinois, respectively, then moved to
San Diego, had two children, and earned her law degree at night from the University of San Diego. After a few years in private practice, Janet taught research and writing and ran programs for disabled and disadvantaged students at her law school.
Steve, professor emeritus of philosophy, died Feb. 10, 2023.
He earned his bachelor’s in philosophy with Honors at Swarthmore and his Ph.D. in philosophy from Johns Hopkins University. He was a professor of philosophy at Northeastern University; author of numerous articles on ethics and political philosophy as well as six books, including 2010’s Terrorism and the Ethics of War; and co-founded Newton Dialogues on Peace and War. He was a skilled musician on banjo, recorder, trumpet, and piano.
Richard, a biology professor, died Jan. 8, 2022.
He graduated with Honors in biology from Swarthmore, earned his Ph.D. in biology from the University of Pennsylvania, and also attended the University of California–San Diego. Richard was professor at the University of Texas at Austin’s School of Biology, was a member of the Institute for Cellular and Molecular Biology, had numerous publications, and received the College of Natural Sciences Teaching Award.
John, who worked for NASA and was an aerospace physiologist, died May 22, 2022.
He earned his bachelor’s at Swarthmore and a Ph.D. in aerospace physiology from Indiana University; joined the U.S. Navy; worked for the NASA Space program as a board-certified aerospace physiologist at the Johnson Space Center; made numerous trips to Russia, working with astronauts and cosmonauts in the Shuttle-Mir program; and was a member of the Naval Space Command Detachment. John retired from Lockheed Martin in Virginia; had his pilot’s license; and was a member of two model airplane clubs.
Donatus, an engineer and research scientist and instructor, died April 14, 2022.
Born in Nigeria, he earned bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and engineering at Swarthmore followed by a master’s and Ph.D. in engineering from Virginia Tech. Donatus worked as a senior engineer for Kollmorgen Corp. and then as a research scientist and instructor for more than 25 years at Virginia Tech in several departments within the College of Engineering.
Janet, a Foreign Service officer and foreign policy adviser to former U.S. Sen. Joseph Lieberman, died Dec. 25, 2022.
She earned her bachelor’s in history with distinction at Swarthmore, and a master’s and Ph.D. in African studies from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, as well as a master’s in national security strategy at the National War College. Janet joined the U.S. Department of State Foreign Service and held numerous posts, including as the regional refugee coordinator for West Africa and as deputy U.S. representative to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons; received awards for her work; and retired after 25 years of service.
Hugh, network theorist and community organizer, died March 15, 2023.
He earned his bachelor’s in political science, played varsity football, and sang with Sixteen Feet before earning a master’s in politics and management at George Washington University. He won Swarthmore’s Newtown award for his political book and memorabilia collection. Hugh led political campaigns before founding OTA, a cultural organization focused on connecting creative disciplines across North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota; acquired The Great Discontent platform, which amplifies the work of emerging and underrepresented artists and creative communities; wrote Dude to Dad, and acted as creative-in-residence at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin property in Wisconsin.
Martha, whose greatest joy was helping others, died Feb. 24, 2023.
She earned her bachelor’s in engineering at Swarthmore, where she served as president of Tau Beta Pi engineering honor society and met husband Todd ’77. The couple lived and worked across three continents, six countries, and six states. Martha co-founded the Stewpot Alliance, a Dallas nonprofit that raised funds for the homeless.
Editor’s Note: The date of passing of Gregory Hannsgen ’86 in the winter issue of the Bulletin should have been Aug. 27, 2021. We regret the error.
Sheila, an educator and cat lover, died Jan. 16, 2023.
She earned her bachelor’s in English literature and psychology with distinction at Swarthmore,
where she was a member of the Gospel Choir. She had a career in education for 22 years, mostly working as a specialized tutor for places like Sylvan Learning Center, and also teaching secondary education for a number of years. An avid reader, Sheila loved listening to music as well as singing
and playing the piano.
Jeff, who discovered new ways to treat cancer, died Jan. 2, 2023.
He earned his bachelor’s in biology at Swarthmore, completed a Fulbright fellowship at the University of Heidelberg’s European Molecular Biology Laboratory, received a doctorate in cell biology from Yale University, and finished a postdoctoral fellowship in cell biology at Harvard University. In 2004, Jeff joined Fox Chase Cancer Center, was awarded his own lab, and became a professor of cell biology, discovering new ways to treat cancer. He published dozens of papers and volunteered with the Philadelphia-based eClose Institute and Fox Chase Cancer Center’s Immersion Science Program.
Submit an obituary
To report the death of an alum, email obituaries@swarthmore.edu. Please provide the class year (if known), the date of death, and a short biography or link to a published obituary.
Newspaper obituaries may also be mailed to Swarthmore College Bulletin, 500 College Ave., Swarthmore, PA 19081.