Jon Ramsey
Jon Ramsey, Skidmore’s former dean of studies, who left a lasting mark on the Honors Forum and many programs at Skidmore, died of cancer at his home in Goleta, California, on March 9, 2019. He was 77.
Jon is remembered for many contributions to Skidmore, including his roles in enhancing study abroad opportunities and developing “Classroom Protocols” — reflections on Skidmore classroom practices that continue to be updated and shared. Skidmore’s annual Honors Forum Lecture, launched in 1999, was renamed the Jon Ramsey Honors Forum Lecture in his honor.
“He was a truly collaborative, generous, and creative colleague with insights and vision that led to so much that he leaves as a legacy,” said Ann Henderson, Skidmore’s former registrar and director of institutional research.
Born in Cleveland, Jon studied at the San Diego State College (now University) and completed his master’s degree and doctorate at the University of California, Riverside. Before joining Skidmore’s English Department in 1977, Jon taught at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where he also taught following his retirement from Skidmore in 2004.
Shortly after his promotion to associate professor in 1981, Jon was appointed associate dean of student affairs for academic advising. In 1994, he also became dean of studies and continued in that role until his retirement.
Survivors include his wife, Kitty; daughters, Kathy and Alison; sons-in-law, Andrew and Jason; granddaughter, Martha; brother and sister-in-law, Ted and Jean; and extended family.