THE FORUM

Leaving a Legacy of Service: Former AGSM Dean and Professor, Bryan Johnston, Passes Away at 59

Share your memories of Bryan Johnston online

Updated June 12, 2008 - The Atkinson Community lost a notable and popular member this past weekend – former Atkinson Dean and Willamette University Interim President, Bryan Johnston.

To those who knew him, Johnston brought an unsurpassed energy to his career – a self proclaimed “mix of academic and civic service.” He was elected Oregon State Representative twice from 1995-1999, and served as a strong advocate for human service legislation. This led Johnston to his most recent appointment at the Department of Human Services, one of the state’s largest agencies.

Johnston served as Dean of the Atkinson Graduate School of Management in the late 1990’s and as a professor of both conflict resolution (at AGSM) and professor of law (at the Willamette College of Law). Most recently, he taught a course entitled “The Environment of Business” in the MBA for Professionals program and was currently teaching the "Negotiations" course in the Early Career MBA program.

He often spoke to incoming classes about issues of corporate social responsibility, ethics and the role of the organization in a broader societal context. His passion for civic engagement inspired students to actively engage in public service – through volunteerism, internships and careers.

“Bryan approached his life and work with passion and vigor, humor and warmth,” said Willamette University President M. Lee Pelton. “His enormous generosity of spirit, his razor-sharp wit and his infinite capacity to lead and inspire others were the hallmark of all he undertook as husband and father, college professor, Atkinson Dean, interim Willamette president, mediator, legislator, and the top administrator of some of the largest and most complex agencies in state government.”

Just a few weeks ago, Bryan had accepted the position of President of St. Martins College in Lacey, Washington, and planned to relocate there over the summer.

Funeral Service Schedule and Information:

A memorial service for Bryan Johnston will be held Friday, June 20 at 11:00am at Queen of Peace Catholic Church at 4227 Lone Oak Street SE, Salem, Oregon.

Bryan Johnston Scholarship Fund:

Willamette University has established a scholarship fund in Bryan's name and contributions may be sent to:

Bryan Johnston Scholarship Fund
Willamette University
900 State Street NE
Salem, OR  97301

Any questions about the scholarship fund may be directed to Ron Korvas, rkorvas@willamette.edu, or Bob Olson, bolson@willamette.edu

Related Links:

Read the Statesman Journal Article about Bryan Johnston

Read the Chronicle of Higher Education Note about Bryan Johnston

Bryan Johnston's Willamette Faculty Website