Remembering Lance LeLoup
Dr. Lance T. LeLoup, who retired in June after a distinguished career in political science research, teaching, and administration at WSU, died Thursday, July 23, at his home on Whidbey Island. He was 60 and had been suffering from cancer.
A highly regarded observer of the state political scene, Dr. LeLoup had most recently served as vice provost of international programs for the University. He came to WSU in 1996 to serve as chair of the Department of Political Science, a position he held until 2001. He also served as director of the Thomas S. Foley Institute for Public Policy and Public Service from 1998 to 2001. Earlier this year, he was promoted to the rank of regents professor, the first faculty member from political science to achieve that rank.
"Lance's colleagues will remember him as a true friend, the first to celebrate the successes of others and to offer his support when things did not go well," said Cornell Clayton, a long-time colleague and friend who is the current director of the Foley Institute. "Even as he accepted heavy administrative responsibilities, he offered his time unselfishly to others, sharing his vast experience and knowledge with younger colleagues and graduate students.
"In the past few days, I have received countless phone calls and e-mail messages from former students and colleagues from around the world, each with a story of how Lance had touched their lives or altered their careers. On Thursday the university community lost not only a respected scholar but an exceptional colleague and true friend who enriched the lives of all those who had the pleasure of knowing him. He will be dearly missed."
Dr. LeLoup died surrounded by family and friends. His wife Pam works for the WSU Foundation. Survivors also include his mother Jean, daughter Molly, stepdaughters Jennifer and Rebecca, brother Leif, and sisters Laurel and Lynn.
Lance LeLoup Memorial Scholarship Fund
Dr. LeLoup's family has asked that contributions in his honor be made to a scholarship fund they have established through the WSU Foundation.
Checks can be written to "WSU Foundation – Lance LeLoup Memorial" and mailed to WSU Foundation, Pullman, WA 99164-1927.
Gifts in his honor may also be made securely online.