It is with great sadness that we bring you news of the passing of Don McQuade, Professor Emeritus of English and former dean of Undergraduate and Interdisciplinary Studies (1989–1995). McQuade was instrumental in the founding of the American Studies program here at Berkeley, helping to establish and find financial support for key aspects of the program, such as regular co-teaching between colleagues affiliated with differing departments and programs.
McQuade was born in Brooklyn 1941 and educated at St. Francis College, going on to earn an M.A. and a Ph.D., both in English from Rutgers. Joining the faculty at UC Berkeley in 1986, McQuade held several senior leadership positions on campus throughout his career, including several that focused on mentoring student writing, as well as efforts to increase college access for undergraduates who are first generation college-goers, transfer students, and underrepresented minorities. Notably, he conceived and developed the Undergraduate Research Apprentice Program, which has grown into a successful campus-wide program providing undergraduates the opportunity to do original research. Additionally, from 1999 to 2006, McQuade served as Vice Chancellor of University Relations.
Despite McQuade’s many responsibilities across campus, he always retained a strong connection to American Studies, and was an active participant in program leadership as a several-times Director and as a member of the advisory board both before and after transition to emeritus status. He also taught courses for the program, most recently “Mapping America,” an honors seminar co-taught with Kathleen Moran in Fall 2019.
We remember McQuade for his poise and principle, devotion to colleagues, commitment to students, and dedication to our program. We miss his teaching, his thoughtful brand of leadership, and his good humor.
McQuade will be honored at a funeral service on Friday, September 26th in Piedmont, and at a tribute and celebration on Saturday, September 27th in San Francisco. For information on either event, or to make a charitable donation in lieu of flowers, please visit the following web page: