Diversity champion, Denton, dies

The engineering community is saddened by the tragic death of Dr. Denice Denton, Chancellor of the University of California at Santa Cruz. She passed away on June 24.

UCSC Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor David Klinger described Denton as "A highly accomplished person. A woman who dedicated her life and career to opening doors for countless young people, particularly for women and minorities who wanted to pursue careers in engineering and science."

Denice Denton

Many ASME members were touched by Denton's life and by her celebration of diversity. Donna J. Michalek, associate professor at Michigan Technological Institute — who has served as an ASME Federal Fellow, a member of its Board on Diversity and Outreach and has been selected to serve on its Board on Government Relations — said she met Denton during a speaking engagement Denton had at Michigan Tech. "Denise impressed the somewhat skeptical male engineering chairs by articulating her strong commitment to diversity, without coming across as strident or judgmental. I recall thinking that at the time that Denise used her position to promote diversity in a positive and inclusive manner, not through intimidation or by command.

"Denise was extremely influential in making the engineering community more diverse, especially for women and minorities. That she be remembered as a pioneer in championing diversity in our discipline and community is a fitting legacy."

— Mary James Legatski

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