In Memoriam

Rice University President Emeritus Malcolm Gillis, University Professor of Economics and Ervin Kenneth Zingler Chair in Economics, passed away October 4, 2015.

Gillis served as the President of Rice University from 1993-2004. His areas of expertise included fiscal economic, economic development, and environmental policy. He served as a global ambassador and consulted with numerous countries on economic public policy. He co-authored the popular textbook, Economics of Development (5th edition, 2002) and also served as co-editor for the Quarterly Journal of Economics from 1979 to 1984.

Professor Gillis received his B.A. and M.A. from the University of Florida and his Ph.D. from the University of Illinois. Prior to coming to Rice, he was dean of the faculty of arts and sciences at Duke University (1991–1993) and dean of graduate school and vice provost, academic affairs, at Duke (1986–1991). Further history and accomplishments can be found on his personal website.

The Economics Department and the University appreciate Gillis’s important contributions as an outstanding scholar and professor. The Malcolm Gillis Awards were established in 2015 to honor his contributions. The awards are granted to the graduating seniors majoring in Economics and Mathematical Economic Analysis with the highest GPA.

Friends, colleagues, former students who wish to contribute to this fellowship in honor of Gillis may use this online form to do so. Note: On the form, please be sure to designate your gift in memory of Malcolm Gillis to ensure it will be used for the fellowship.