In Memoriam: Edgar J. McCullough, Jr.
A version of this story first appeared on the College of Science website.
The University of Arizona and College of Science are remembering Edgar J. McCullough, Jr., who died Jan. 29 at 94 years old. McCullough was a distinguished scholar and educator, the college's first dean, and a deeply respected humanitarian whose life's work touched countless students, colleagues and communities.
Edgar J. McCullough, Jr. at the University of Arizona in 1980.
McCullough earned his doctorate in geology from the University of Arizona in 1963 and went on to build an extraordinary career in service to the university. Over the decades, he served as professor, department head and as the inaugural dean of the newly established Faculty of Science – now the College of Science – a role he held from 1982 to 1992. His leadership during a period of significant growth helped shape the college's academic foundation, standards of excellence and collaborative culture that continue to define it today.
As a faculty member and administrator, McCullough was widely admired for his commitment to teaching and student engagement. He was an early innovator in science education, reaching broad audiences through video-based instruction and advocating for new approaches that made science accessible, engaging and relevant to students from all backgrounds. As head of the Department of Geology – later the Department of Geosciences – he led the transformation of the program into one of national prominence, laying the groundwork for its continued top-ranked status.
As dean, McCullough brought a broad and forward-looking vision to the College of Science. He championed interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthened faculty recruitment and promotion standards, expanded partnerships with industry and supported the growth of programs that remain integral to the college's success today. Above all, he believed deeply in the power of education to change lives and worked tirelessly to strengthen science education at every level.
McCullough retired in 1997. In 2022, the College of Science celebrated McCullough as its Alumnus of the Year.
McCullough's legacy is one of vision, integrity and compassion. He exemplified the University of Arizona's land-grant mission through scholarship, leadership and service, and he leaves an enduring imprint on the College of Science, the university, and the broader community.