In Memoriam: Dr. James P. Pappas
The University of Oklahoma community mourns the passing of Dr. James P. Pappas, a visionary leader, beloved colleague, and tireless advocate for lifelong learning. Dr. Pappas served the University for over 30 years, retiring as Vice President for University Outreach and Dean of the College of Liberal Studies—OU’s longest-serving dean.
Born in Price, Utah, to Greek immigrant parents, Dr. Pappas embodied the American dream. From humble beginnings—shining shoes in his father’s barbershop and working countless part-time jobs—he rose to become a nationally recognized leader in continuing education. After earning degrees from the University of Utah, Ohio University, and Purdue University, he dedicated his life to expanding educational opportunities for working adults, military personnel, and underserved communities.
At OU, Dr. Pappas led University Outreach to international prominence, managing a $100 million annual enterprise that served over 200,000 participants worldwide. Under his leadership, the College of Liberal Studies, now the College of Professional and Continuing Studies, pioneered online learning and became one of the top-ranked programs of its kind. His influence extended far beyond Oklahoma, serving as president of national professional associations and as executive director of the International Adult and Continuing Education Hall of Fame. His efforts helped shape the global field of continuing education, earning him induction into both the Oklahoma Higher Education Hall of Fame and the International Hall of Fame.
Dr. Pappas’ warmth, intellect, and unwavering commitment to service left an indelible mark on his colleagues, students, and international peers. As one colleague wrote, “Jim was a great ambassador for lifelong learning, and his friendship was always a privilege.” Dr. Pappas reiterated his commitment to service in his retirement speech in December 2016, when he said, “We created a mission statement that outlined our role as transforming people’s lives through knowledge, and, over the years, I have emphasized our collective desire to do good work. I will be ever thankful to all the staff because they embraced that mission and that purpose. I most enjoy seeing the successes of our students and clients.”
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Peggy, their children Jennifer and Peter, and two cherished granddaughters. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the community he helped found to support his vision for a better, more educated, and peaceful world. The James P. Pappas Scholarship is just one example, and surely there will be more James P. Pappas Memorial program initiatives created in his honor in the months ahead.
May his memory be eternal.