Larry E. Davis, dean of the School of Social Work at the University of Pittsburgh from 2001-2018 and founding director of its Center on Race and Social Problems, died on March 30. He was 74 years old and had suffered from cancer.
A native of Michigan, Dr. Davis earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Michigan State University. He held a master of social work degree, a master’s degree in psychology, and a doctorate in social work from the University of Michigan.
Dr. Davis joined the faculty at the University of Pittsburgh in 2001. Earlier, he was a professor of psychology and social work at Washington University in St. Louis. He was the founder of the journal Race and Social Problems.
Patrick Gallagher, chancellor of the University of Pittsburgh, stated that “Larry was a remarkable leader and scholar. He took on society’s toughest challenges and worked tirelessly to realize a better, fairer world. He leaves us with an enduring legacy that inspires us to do better.”