Wayne “Dempsey” Worner, professor emeritus and former dean of Virginia Tech’s School of Education, passed away on April 25.

Worner was born in Wahpeton, North Dakota, on Dec. 2, 1937. He married his next-door neighbor and childhood sweetheart, Kathie, 18 years later. 

Worner started his academic career at North Dakota State University, where he earned his doctorate in 1966. After serving as a teacher, coach, principal, and superintendent in local schools, Worner accepted a position at Virginia Tech and played a key role in the inception of the university’s College of Education, which later evolved into the School of Education. 

On graduation day when Worner earned his doctoral degree, he was hooded by Glen Earthman, who would later become his colleague at Virginia Tech. Nearly 30 years later, Earthman also hooded Worner’s son, Scott Worner, who graduated with a doctorate in educational administration from Virginia Tech in 1995 and now is superintendent of Mecklenburg County Public Schools in Virginia.

Among the many vital roles he held as a Hokie, Worner served as the first division chair of curriculum and instruction in the College of Education. According to his family, the role he treasured most was advising 125 doctoral students and 75 principal preparation students. 

“When I was in the doctoral program and taking a summer class on campus in 1992, Dr. Worner hosted us at his home and, as always, was so gracious and welcoming. He made us feel at home,” said Carol Cash, professor of practice in the Educational Leadership and Policy Studies program in the School of Education. “He was my professor for one of my classes, and he didn’t let you get away with platitudes. He wanted you to do the hard work. He contributed much to Virginia Tech, to the students he taught, and the colleagues with whom he worked. While others called him ‘Dempsey’ I will always think of him as Dr. Worner.”

On top of his many academic and professional accomplishments, Worner also played an active role in his community and was a member of the board of directors for the League of Women Voters (LWV) of Montgomery County for many years. 

According to a statement on the league's website, Worner "initiated and led" the local study of funding for public schools in Virginia. "That study launched a statewide LWV study on education funding and a position for advocacy," the statement says. "He was smart and determined in his commitment to public education, but he was also generous, respectful, and good natured. His presence as well as his expertise enriched our lives.” 

Worner also established the Wayne M. Worner Scholarship fund, which supports graduate students who are preparing for careers as public school administrators. 

A celebration of life will be held on May 31 from 1-5 p.m. at Warm Hearth Village Center. 

Worner’s full obituary can be found online.

Members of the university community who seek support or assistance are encouraged to contact these resources:

Written by Samantha Palmer

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