Faculty We’ve Lost

Nina A. Westcott, professor in the College of Education from 1967 until her retirement in 1993, died December 30, 2008 at the age of 70. She taught and conducted research in counseling and guidance. Born in Gauhati, Assam, India, Westcott earned her bachelor's degree in Political Science at St. Mary's College in Notre Dame, Indiana (1958), followed by a master's degree in education at DePaul University, Chicago (1962); and a PhD in counseling psychology at the University of Arizona (1967).

Emeritus professor Dr. Arthur R. King, Jr., visionary founder and longtime director of the Curriculum Research & Development Group (CRDG) at the University of Hawai'i at Manoa, passed away on February 2, 2009 in Honolulu. He was 87. King was the first member of his family to attend college, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Washington in 1943. He also studied at the UH Teacher's College and taught at Punahou School from 1946 through 1949. King went on to obtain his master's degree and EdD at Stanford University before serving as Director of Curricular Services for the Sonoma County Schools. In 1955, he joined Claremont Graduate School as an associate professor of education where he remained until 1965. King returned to UH Manoa in 1965 as a member of the research faculty in the College of Education until his retirement in 2006.

Dr. Donnis Thompson, Emeritus Professor of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation, died on February 2, 2009. With the COE since 1961, she became director of athletics in 1972 and served in that capacity until she became the Hawai'i Superintendant of Education in 1981. A native of Chicago, Dr. Thompson graduated from George Williams College and received her doctorate in physical education and administration from the University of Northern Colorado.

Dr. Daniel Warren Fullmer, who was instrumental in creating a PhD counseling and guidance program at the University of Hawai'i at Manoa, died on February 20, 2009 at the age of 86. A professor in educational psychology at the COE from 1966 to 1995, Fullmer maintained a family therapy practice until his passing.

Dr. Andrew In, former dean of the College of Education (COE), passed away on May 26, 2009. Receiving his baccalaureate degree in education at the COE in 1941, In served as a leader, a mentor, and a friend of the college for several decades. From principal of University High School to professor, chair, and finally dean, In remained active in the COE alumni association until 2007.

Dr. Thomas W. Speitel, natural and information sciences professor in the College of Education Curriculum Research & Development Group (CRDG), passed away on September 19, 2009. A prolific author of scholarly publications and software programs, Speitel was also an avid sailor who was drawn to the waters and flora/fauna of Hawai'i in 1967 when he enrolled in UHM's botanical sciences doctoral program.