In Memoriam: Dr. Edgar J. McCullough, Jr.
The University of Arizona and College of Science mourn the passing of Dr. Edgar J. McCullough, Jr., a distinguished scholar and educator, the college’s first dean, and a deeply respected humanitarian whose life’s work touched countless students, colleagues and communities.
Dr. McCullough earned his doctorate in geology from the University of Arizona in 1963 and went on to build an extraordinary career in service to the university. Over the decades, he served as professor, department head, and as the inaugural dean of the newly established Faculty of Science—now the College of Science—a role he held from 1982 to 1992. His leadership during a period of significant growth helped shape the college’s academic foundation, standards of excellence and collaborative culture that continue to define it today.
Dr. Edgar J. McCullough, Jr. at the University of Arizona in 1980.
As a faculty member and administrator, Dr. McCullough was widely admired for his commitment to teaching and student engagement. He was an early innovator in science education, reaching broad audiences through video-based instruction and advocating for new approaches that made science accessible, engaging and relevant to students from all backgrounds. As head of Geology—later Geosciences—he led the transformation of the program into one of national prominence, laying the groundwork for its continued top-ranked status.
As dean, Dr. McCullough brought a broad and forward-looking vision to the College of Science. He championed interdisciplinary collaboration, strengthened faculty recruitment and promotion standards, expanded partnerships with industry, and supported the growth of programs that remain integral to the college’s success today. Above all, he believed deeply in the power of education to change lives and worked tirelessly to strengthen science education at every level.
Following his retirement in 1997, Dr. McCullough embarked on what many consider one of the most profound chapters of his life. Moved by the humanitarian crisis unfolding along the U.S.–Mexico border, he dedicated himself to mapping migrant trail networks across southern Arizona. Drawing on his expertise as a field geologist, he hiked through remote desert terrain to document routes used by migrants, enabling humanitarian organizations to place life-saving water stations more effectively. In 2020, Humane Borders honored him by dedicating a water station in recognition of his extraordinary service. In 2022, the College of Science celebrated Dr. McCullough as its Alumnus of the Year.
Dr. McCullough’s legacy is one of vision, integrity and compassion. He exemplified the University of Arizona’s land-grant mission through scholarship, leadership and service, and he leaves an enduring imprint on the College of Science, the university, and the broader community.