Dear DU community members,
It is with great sadness that I write to share the news that Sylvester Houston, an Emeritus Lecturer in the Management Department in the Daniels College of Business, passed away on Monday, October 9, 2023.
Syl was a veteran, serving his country for many years, before pursuing his graduate education. He earned a master’s and completed doctoral level coursework in Public Policy from University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Syl worked as a trainer for the U.S. Government in Denver before coming to the University in 1996.
At the University of Denver, he taught courses primarily in public policy as well as business & society, and also taught in the First-Year Seminar (FSEM) program. Syl served as a mentor and role model to many students, encouraging their personal and professional development.
Countless students and colleagues have been impacted by Syl’s teaching, service, and caring personality. His impact on, and recognition by, the community is reflected in his receipt of the Pioneer Award for his inclusive excellence, his delivery of a “Last Lecture” for the university, his service as an Ammi Hyde interviewer, and the naming of a student scholarship fund in his honor. He formed a multitude of friendships in his travels and teaching in countries across the world including Albania, Africa, and Taiwan. He retired in 2014 but continued to stay in touch with former students, colleagues, and friends.
A memorial reception will be held in November to honor Syl Houston. Please contact Paul Olk, Professor and Chair of the Management Department, at Paul.Olk@du.edu, for more information.
Sincerely,
Jenn Bellamy
Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs