08/23/2023
It is with a very heavy heart that I write this It is with a very heavy heart that I write this message to our health and human services community. This past Saturday, August 19, 2023, we lost one of our most honored and loved colleagues. Dr. Ray de Leon, director of the School of Kinesiology, had a heart attack and could not be resuscitated. π
In these moments, words sound hollow. Saying he was an outstanding leader, an exceptional educator, committed to our students, and a dedicated family man would normally end the sentence and a tribute. However, more needs to be written because he was an incredibly rare and exceptional person. He was and will remain one of the kindest, most humble, and most thoughtful individuals I have ever met. Working with Ray over the years taught me that you can achieve a great deal by just remaining calm. He never once criticized or had a negative word to say about anyone. He looked for the best in everyone and sought the creative blend when conflict occurred. We spent many hours talking about his love of the School of Kinesiology, faculty, students, and life. Beyond work, we saw life through the same lens, shared stories about our families, laughed, and always found time to discuss never-ending home projects.
Ray was the quintessential scholar and was awarded the University Outstanding Professor Award in 2018.
Letβs keep Ray and his family in our prayers. ππ½π