DALLAS (SMU) – SMU Associate Professor of Political Science Dennis Simon died Sunday, February 12, in Dallas after a long illness. An SMU faculty member since 1986, he was a recognized expert on the American presidency, national elections, women and the political glass ceiling, and the politics of change in the United States.
Passionate about his students and his work, he continued to teach and present lectures on the presidential elections to the SMU community through fall of 2016.
"Dennis Simon's legacy at SMU will not be forgotten," said SMU President R. Gerald Turner. "He was both a brilliant scholar and devoted teacher, talents he bridged with a sense of humor that never wavered. Dr. Simon invested his time, commitment and his passion for political science with his students, fellow scholars and the community. His influence will live on in the many lives he touched."
The Texas House of Representatives “gaveled out” its regular session Tuesday, Feb. 14, in Simon’s memory on a motion by State Rep. Morgan Meyer. Services for Simon are pending.
Simon was quick to say that his proudest and most impactful work came in guiding since 2008 both undergraduate and graduate students on SMU’s annual Civil Rights Pilgrimage to historical sites across the south. The 7-8 day bus trip occurs during Spring Break every year, creating an immersive learning experience that “pilgrims” describe as life changing.
During Simon's 31 years as an SMU faculty member, he received nearly every teaching award offered by the University, including the "M" Award, the Willis Tate Award and President's Associate Award. In 2005 he received the Altshuler Distinguished Teaching Professor Award, given to just four professors each year for their commitment to student learning. Known for his mentorship and dedication to teaching, he used U.S. elections as a living laboratory, teaching his popular course, "Presidential Elections," every four years.
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