In memoriam: Gary Wamsley, professor emeritus, School of Public and International Affairs
Gary Lee Wamsley, professor emeritus and well-regarded leader in the School of Public and International Affairs, passed away on Oct. 29 in Blacksburg.
Wamsley was born in Falls City, Nebraska, and grew up both in Falls City and in Los Angeles.
He joined Virginia Tech in 1977, where he founded the school’s Center for Public Administration and Policy and served as its director. He was a dedicated teacher and advisor.
In addition to his work in the classroom, Wamsley contributed to research on governance and administration, writing nearly 100 publications during his career and directing many sponsored research and development projects.
He was editor of the highly regarded journal Administration and Society for 40 years, and he co-authored "Blacksburg Manifesto" and "The Refounding of Public Administration.”
Wamsley also was an active member in the National Academy of Public Administration and the American Society of Public Administration.
He received his bachelor's degree and master's degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, and a Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh. After earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Wamsley served for four years in the U.S. Air Force, achieved the rank of captain.
A celebration of his life will be held at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Blacksburg on Dec. 7 at noon. The service will be followed by a gathering in the church hall.
Wamsley’s full obituary is available online.
Members of the university community who seek support or assistance are encouraged to contact these resources:
- TimelyCare
- Cook Counseling Center at 540-231-6557
- Dean of Students Office at 540-231-3787. Referral to a campus cleric may be made through this office.
- Employee Assistance Program
- Anthem at 855-223-9277
- Aetna at 888-238-6232
- Kaiser Permanente at 866-517-7042
- Sentara Health Plans Vantage HMO at 800-899-8174
- Hokie Wellness at 540-231-2233 (students) or 540-231-8878 (employees)
- Housing Services at 540-231-6205
- Residential Well-being at 540-231-1139
- Equity and Accessibility at 540-231-2010
- Women's Center at Virginia Tech at 540-231-7806
- University Ombuds Office at 540-231-3125
- Graduate Office of the Ombudsperson at 540-231-9573
