Dr. Gilbert Riley Whitaker Jr.

It was with sadness that I learned of Dean Gil Whitaker's passing this past Thursday. I extend my sympathies to Ruth, to his children and to his extended family.

I first got to know Gil Whitaker when I was a second year MBA student at the University of Michigan Graduate School of Business in 1979. Dean Whitaker had been named to replace Dean Floyd Bond who retired that year. I was a member of the student council and I recall the positive feelings we all had for the arrival of the...

I was very sorry to learn of Gil's passing. George joins me in extending our deepest sympathy to Ruth and his family.

I had the highest regard for Gil during his tenure as Dean at the U of M Business School. He was very supportive of my efforts to recruit students of color and because of his support the Business School was recognized nationally.

Higher education has lost a leader among leaders. His contributions will be long remembered.