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Dwight James Simpson

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San Francisco State University Stanford University Williams College

Dwight Simpson Obituary

Professor Dwight James Simpson 85, died December 22nd after a brief illness. Until his death, Professor Simpson had taught International Relations at San Francisco State University continuously since 1968. A Middle Eastern history and politics specialist, Professor Simpson often appeared on radio and television and he lectured in both academic and business venues to provide perspective on the political dynamics of the Middle East. Born in Salem, Oregon, in 1921, Dwight Simpson was schooled in San Mateo and San Francisco. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1941 and he took part in the D-Day landing at Omaha Beach. He was awarded a Purple Heart and a Bronze Star for exceptional bravery. After earning a BA, MA and PhD from Stanford University, Professor Simpson earned a post-doctoral degree at University College, Oxford. His first teaching post was at Williams College in Massachusetts. In 1964, he moved to Turkey to lecture at Istanbul University; after a year, he became president of Bogazigi University, formerly known as Robert College. After leaving Turkey, he taught for one year, in 1967 at the University of California, Berkeley and thereafter began his tenure at San Francisco State University. Professor Simpson is survived by his wife of 56 years, Harriet and four children, Anthony (54), Charles (52), David (50) and Margaret (47) and 10 grandchildren. A long-time resident of Berkeley, Professor Simpson was an ardent supporter of various conservation causes. Donations in memory of Professor Simpson may be sent to Citizens for East Shore Parks (www.eastshorepark.org)

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Published by San Francisco Chronicle from Dec. 29 to Dec. 30, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Dwight Simpson

46 Entries

Dunn

April 19, 2023

I had Dwight Simpson in the mid-80s. He gave me tools and methods and lenses to see & hear the world differently. I still think of his classes, when most of my other classes have faded! I didn't end up majoring in IR, but his classes were foundational to my education.

Juliana Dornellas

January 26, 2007

Professor Simpson was an inspiration to me. I started
at SFSU as an IR major, but the only classes I enjoyed
attending were his. I took 3 of his classes and the
next semester when I did not have him as a professor,
I found myself out of place in IR major. Remembering
Professor Simpson teach his classes with so much
enthusiasm and being well aware of the fact he chose
never to retire because he 'more than loved' what he
did, inspired me to choose a major I would love and be
enthusiastic about. So, two more years at SFSU, as a
CW major, no more classes with Professor Simpson,
nevertheless, I was always there... in his office...
Always fascinated by what he had to say and how
intelligent he was. I share every single one of his
liberal ideas and to simply know there was once
someone in this world who thought the same as I do in
regards to politics is just beautiful (lacking of a
better word as my eyes fill with tears). I regret I
never contacted him after I left California, but he
has had and will always have a special place in my
heart together with the rare special people I have met
in my life. I love you, professor Simpson.

Heela

January 25, 2007

Professor Simpson:

May your soul rest in peace! My deepest sympathy goes to your family and dearest friends.

You were an AMAZING PROFESSOR!

you were my FIRST professor at SFSU, at 8 AM, two consecutive semesters.

Your method of teaching, along with the extent of knowledge and information you had gained from your experiences and visits around the world, you were, by far, a master at teaching.

Although my class was at 8 am for an entire year, knowing you were the one lecturing us was a motivation, and more so, an interest to attend class.

it is the first semester in which you are not here to teach, and my first semester in which i have not taken your class. . you will be missed greatly!

Marisol

January 25, 2007

I have to say that Professor Simpson was one of my favorites. It's because of him that I've become aware and learned to question so many things. He was someone who really wanted you to think for yourself and not only because he loved teaching but because he wanted his students to well in and out of his classroom. Few teachers encourage that. Thank you Professor Simpson.

Juliana Dornellas

January 25, 2007

Professor Simpson was an inspiration to me. I started at SFSU as an IR major, but the only classes I enjoyed attending were his. I took 3 of his classes and the next semester when I did not have him as a professor, I found myself out of place in IR major. Remembering Professor Simpson teach his classes with so much enthusiasm and being well aware of the fact he chose never to retire because he 'more than loved' what he did, inspired me to choose a major I would love and be enthusiastic about. So, two more years at SFSU, as a CW major, no more classes with Professor Simpson, nevertheless, I was always there... in his office... Always fascinated by what he had to say and how intelligent he was. I share every single one of his liberal ideas and to simply know there was once someone in this world who thought the same as I do in regards to politics is just beautiful (lacking of a better word as my eyes fill with tears). I regret I never contacted him after I left California, but he has had and will always have a special place in my heart together with the rare special people I have met in my life. I love you, professor Simpson.

January 25, 2007

I took one of Dr. Simpsons last classes, Im sorry to say,last Fall 2006. Although I didnt agree with his politics and method of instruction, I sure as hell respect him as a veteran and for his achademic achievements. May god rest your soul and I wish your family well.

Shirin usmani

January 24, 2007

It is the first day at school and came up to the 2nd floor of HSS bldg and I saw Dr. Simpson's picture on his door. I took Middle East class with him in Fall 2006 and he went out of his way to support an event that I wanted to organize at school on Palestinian-Israel discussion.
His classes were always full of energy as he managed to challenge his students to engage in discussion. I will truly miss him. I would like to extend my sincere condolences to his wife, children, and grand children.

Shaukat Mubarak

January 24, 2007

This is the first day at school and i just heard the news that professor Simpson Died. May God rest his soul in peace. I was shocked and in complete awe. He was one of the best professors I have ever met and he will be missed for the coming years. Its a definite loss of asset to sf state for scholars like him are hard to come by. I will always carry his memories with me for the years to come. We miss you Dr. Simpson and you are the best one can ever have

Erin Scholnick-Lee

January 23, 2007

I have been wondering where Professor Simpson was. How sad I never to say hello or goodbye. I had Professor Simpson as an instructor in 1986. I am now teaching at SFSU and he cheerfully bid me hello as I walked up the stairs to the second floor of HSS for my classes this past year. I meant to stop and say more than hello. This is certainly a lesson. Do not put off until tomorrow what we can do today. My thoughts are with the family-

Guillermo Condeso

January 17, 2007

Dr. Simpson made me who I am today. As my mentor, he will always have a place next to my heart. I wish I could have said goodbye. He is a hero to this great nation and to all of those he touched.

Said Tlemcani

January 14, 2007

I was very saddened when a former class-mate of mine emailed me stating that professor Dwight J. Simpson had passed away. We both served on his panel of teaching assistants in the I.R. Department for 2 years. We shared many sweet intellectual moments. There is no denying that he and I had an exclusive professor-to-student relationship. I respected him for the grand window he had on the world and particularly the Middle East where my ancestors come from. He had an impact on us all like no other. He said it the way he saw it. He was a man of truth and audacity. His presence will be greatly missed. San Francisco State University will never be the same without him. My very deepest condolences go to his wife which I had the pleasure of meeting at Commonwealth Club of California and his children.

Hannah

January 13, 2007

I was privileged to take one of Mr. Simpson's classes. It opened my eyes to so many new things that have helped shape who I am. His presence will be greatly missed.

Jen Erickson

January 10, 2007

I was lucky to have been able to take a class with him. His life experiences and knowledge were unrivaled. He was truly an inspiration.

Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.

Jennifer Kotta

January 10, 2007

Dr. Simpson was an incredible instructor with dynamic knowledge of and true passion for the subjects he taught. I hope his presence will haunt the halls of the IR department from time to time, discreetly bidding everyone there to broaden their minds and consider other views. My condolences to his family, friends, and all whom mourn his loss.

Sharon Chong Lipping

January 8, 2007

In 1992, I was a Business Major who got roped into IR by Dr. Simpson's charm, wit and dedication. I added IR as a second major and was priviliged to be his assistant for several semesters. I like to think of myself as one of his success stories, not because I have embarked in a career in IR, but because I am a 'better citizen.' Dr. Simpson, thank you for making me a better citizen and a better person.

Jerry Habib

January 7, 2007

My condolances to the family of Professor Dwight Simpson. He was a man that provided a balanced view of the situation in the Middle East and it was this view which he shared in his courses. I was fortunate to take a course of his during my time at San Francisco State and it was one of the most informative courses I have ever took. May he Rest in Peace and his legacy at SF State live on forever.

Loubna Qutami

January 7, 2007

Professor simpson will always be remembered as a man of integrity, strength of character and wisdom. He, unlike many other educators, challenged his students (like myself) to think about international politics, and relations in a critical way. The best educators are those who do not just reiterate information they have learned, but those who challenge their students to think about the social world they have so comfortabley become a part of. Professor Simpson has also always shed an accurate light on the situation of Palestine, and to take such a stand during a time of censorship and punishment upon this matter, shows a man of true integrity. You will be missed professor Simpson, but your legacy will live on.

Mazouza Assaf

January 7, 2007

In my 4 years at SFSU, you were the only professor who I felt comfortable around to talk about anything I wanted to. You never pushed anyone away and will be remembered for your strong will and powerful expression of opinion. You were the reason I decided to go into International Relations, and your inspiration is what helped me graduate and achieve my goal. May God rest your soul and you will always be loved and remembered as the wonderful mentor that you were.
RIP Professor

Charlie El-Qare

January 7, 2007

Dr. Simpson was not only one of my favorite professors, he is my hero. As soon as I heard about Dr. Simpson I had to enroll in his class to find out for myself what a great professor he was. Once I did, I couldn’t get enough of his classes so I continued to enroll in more and more. It’s an honor to have taken his classes and to have hosted the Model Arab League at San Francisco State for three years in a row 2002-2004. Dr. Simpson was the first professor I had taken that was completely honest and freely spoke about the Middle East, and he never held back when he spoke about the situation of Palestine. He was an advisor to the General Union of Palestine Students at San Francisco State for many years and supported the work GUPS is currently doing to honor Dr. Edward Said in a Mural that will hopefully be unveiled soon. He will truly be missed. RIP Dr. Simpson.

Ardeshir Pezeshk

January 3, 2007

I intended on mailing this letter to Professor Simpson after our final. I truly wish I did not hold on to it as long as I did. All I can really say is that he was one of the few teachers who really make an impact on a student's life. I will truly miss him. So here is the letter, I apologize for its length.

Professor Simpson,

First I want to wish you haste in your recovery. I am lucky enough to not undergo such things at this point in my life and am glad that, at least for the moment, time is on my side. I can only imagine what it is to have a heart attack. Second, I wanted to express my appreciation for all your help over these past two semesters. You have been more than willing to meet with me and talk about my goals in life and have helped show me the right way to achieve those goals. For that I am grateful and know of no way to truly show said gratitude without doing what we have talked about.

Your classes have opened my eyes to something that I was essentially born into. I’ve always thought of myself as American first and Iranian second. I am not saying that is bad, but in light of our discussions, both in class and in private, along with all the readings we have done, I am more proud of my culture and history than I have been at any other time in my life. Case in point was last semester in which you assigned the book All the Shah’s Men by Stephen Kinzer. After I finished reading that book, I reopened it to find something that struck my heart. It was a page with only five words, but those five words combined with everything else in our class changed my life. It read “For the people of Iran”. Both you and Kinzer talked about the places you have been with such admiration and objectivity that I could not help but decide to make living in a country like Iran or Turkey at the top of my list.

In writing this letter, I have no intention of beating a dead horse and giving you undeserving praise, but the more I think about the impact of your classes and opinion on my life, the more praise you deserve. I feel privileged in that you opened up to our class and let us know of your experiences during World War II and I cannot help but wonder how a single man could have done so much in his lifetime. Although I may know too little about your life including where you have been and things you may not be too proud of, I think of your life as something I wish to emulate. I wish to live in Iran. I wish to pick up Farsi and learn Arabic. I wish to visit Syria and Jordan. I wish to pursue a degree in International Law and be involved in the world of foreign affairs. I wish to gain enough knowledge so that one day I may be able to see the world beyond my own point of view as you consistently do in class.

All in all, I want to thank you Professor Simpson. You may think you have done nothing and that all I am doing is blowing hot air. I assure you I am not. You have encouraged me to remain a child in an academic sense in that there is always more to learn and that one must reserve judgment and be open minded in order to learn.

Once again, thank you. I wish you health and would very much like to continue speaking with you via email or letters. Take care.

Sincerely,
Ardeshir Pezeshk

Karin Avila

January 3, 2007

I feel so fortunate to have know Dr. Simpson. As a student at SFSU, I took his Middle Eastern Politics class in 1995. His is one of the few classes in my academic history that stands out for me. He was eloquent yet firm, diplomatic yet unshakable. I learned a tremenous amount and enjoyed his lectures thoroughly. I'll never forget his endearing personality. Warm regards to his loved ones.

Thomas Blackwood

January 2, 2007

As a former student at SFSU, I can remember the days sitting in Prof. Simpson's class, absorbing every word he spoke. He was such an inspirational man, and will be missed and remembered forever. I thank him for everything I have learned from him, and I send my condolences to the family.

Issa N.

January 2, 2007

Professor Simpson was a great teacher and a good man. I was his student and teaching assistant. I'm grateful to him for what he taught me. I'm also glad that he never backed down and stood up for what he believed in. I'll miss him for sure.

Paul Alires

January 2, 2007

I am so sorry to hear of Dr Simpson's death. I have known Dr Simpson for over 36 years. God Bless you.

Andrew Roderick

January 2, 2007

I have worked next door to Dr. Simpson’s office at SFSU for many years. It’s always been a joke that no matter how early anyone had ever come in, he would already be in his office working away. It was sad today to see the office door closed.

I will miss Dr. Simpson’s wonderful manner, the way he’d walk down the hall humming and his love for his students. He’s always been a class act. My thoughts go out to his family and close friends who I’m sure will miss him dearly.

Elijah

January 2, 2007

Professor Simpson made a profound impact on my intellectual development, as he did for thousands of other young people who were fortunate enough to pass through his classes. His ability to introduce cognitive dissonance consistently throughout forced us to question our shared political reality--with the unsaid ultimate goal of going out and changing the world for the better. Professor Simpson's legacy will continue to impact the world through the lives of the students he touched. Thank you Professor.

Senem Ozer

January 2, 2007

I am terribly shocked and saddened by the loss of Prof. Simpson. He has been very supportive of the Turkish Student Association at San Francisco State University, and very encouraging to all of his students. I will miss him very much, and never forget his encouragement and candor.

Alexander Keller

January 2, 2007

Dr. Simpson will be broadly missed by the many that were touched by his wisdom, kindness, and humor over the years. Having worked down the hall from Dwight for 9 years, I feel honored to call him a colleague and friend. With an unsurpassed commitment to academia and the enrichment of his students, Dr. Simpson exemplified humility and generosity. In his passing we deeply appreciate the legacy he has left for humanity, and steel ourselves with the hope and inspiration that marked his extraordinary contributions.

Allan Graves

January 2, 2007

My most sincere condolences and prayers go out to Professor Simpson’s family, close friends, and the many students that will miss him. His direct approach to life enlightened me with the approach in dealing with politics and international relations. I will miss his presence but I will cherish his teachings. Buen Viaje!

Two Professors: Mentor and Protege

January 2, 2007

Michelle Pena

January 2, 2007

I took Professor Simpson's Introduction to IR in 1998. It was an eye-opening and interesting class. Some classmates and I took him to a Moroccan restaurant at the end of the semester and we had a wonderful time! He had a terrific sense of humor. It was clear that he loved his profession and he will be missed.

Carlos Nieto

January 2, 2007

Dr. Simpson changed my life and brought to light much of which I would never had known if it were not for him. I know that he touched many people with his brilliance and tact and class. He was truly unique in his approach to learning and teaching. SFSU, the I.R. Department, and the academic community as a whole have suffered a great loss. Thankfully he will live eternally in his impact on the people he has encountered in his lifetime; a legacy not to be forgot.

Jerry Robertson

December 31, 2006

I knew Dwight Simpson as a fellow member of the International Relations Forum of the Commonwealth Club. I was greatly sadden to hear of Dwight's passing. We were all enriched by knowing Dwight.

I especially enjoyed the "Tempura House" lunches Dwight organized after our noon International Relations meetings.

Dwight's obituary told me lots of things I never knew about him. When talking to Dwight about something he had done, he invariably turned the conversation around to focus on you not him.

His presentations at the Club were always outstanding and demonstrated his deep and perceptive interest in whatever subject he was adressing. His mastery of a very wide range of topics was amazing as was his ability to relate to a broad audience.

Jerry Robertson

Lily Rahnema

December 31, 2006

RIP Dr. Simpson. You inspired me and generations of other students. You opened my mind up to a different perspective that has lasted with me and will continue to guide me through my life. It was a blessing to be your student

Bernardo Mendez

December 31, 2006

I feel sad to learn about Prof Simpson passing away. As Mexican Consul of Trade in San Francisco I had the honor to address his students at SFSU several times and also be his guest at The Commonwealth Club where he organized international lectures many times a year. I will always keep a deep souvenir of his vitality and clearity of his ideas and points of view

Pamela Rousseau

December 31, 2006

In my early teens I read several articles written by Dr. Simpson on the Middle East; much to my surprise and delight I found myself his student and teaching assistant some years later. His engaging sense of humor and his patience in addition to his depth of knowledge and experience made him one of my favorite professors, and certainly the most unforgettable. My condolences to Harriet and his family, he will be missed and remembered with love.

patrick O'heffernan

December 30, 2006

Dwight was always the smile and the twinkle in our meetings. Although I only knew him through the Commonwealth Club, as a fellow academic we immediately understood one another. I shall miss him as shall many, many people.

Saleh Abdullah

December 30, 2006

When I look back at important stages of my life, Dr. Simpson comes to mind. He was a true inspiration and also a true friend in time of need. He will be missed. My condolences are sent out to the family of Dr. Dwight Simpson. I will never forget that man.
Dr. Simpson will be missed and will never be forgotten

Ehimen A

December 30, 2006

I will always remember him for his sunny disposition, energy, and passion for teaching despite his age. A great man who has accomplished a lot of great things. He will be missed.

Martin F. Morales, Prof.

December 30, 2006

Prof. Simpson taught me, encouraged me and, ultimately, set me on my career path. I aspire to be what he was to me to my students. His compassion, support and friendship will always be remembered and appreciated.
We are his legacy. In our mourning, let us celebrate him.
Condolences to the Simpson family.

Mariam Hosseini

December 30, 2006

My sincerest condolences to Dr. Simpson's loved ones; I am deeply saddened by his passing. I was Dr. Simpson's student and teaching assistant throughout my undergraduate and graduate studies at SFSU and I considered him not only my mentor, advisor, and someone whom I admired, but a friend as well. His intelligence, wit, and gentlemanliness was something to be treasured. Dr. Simpson's dedicaton to justice and his love of the Middle East was unparalleled; we have truly lost an exceptional man. I'll miss him dearly.

Claudia Garvey Curran

December 29, 2006

My deepest condolences to Harriet and family on the passing of their loved one whom I knew as Dr. Simpson. He was my advisor in the Graduate International Relations program at SFSU in the late 70's early 80's and his teachings will be a lifelong memory. His compassion and interest in the Middle East kept me focused and guided me throughout the graduate program. I never knew of Dr. Simpson's time in the Army and I can say how very proud I am of his service to our country. Thank you Dr. Simpson. I am deeply saddened by his passing. What a great man and mentor he was to me.

Virginia Mayo

December 29, 2006

Mr. Simpson was my first international relations professor at SFSU...and the one that will be most remembered. He always had a sweet disposition mixed with a passion for social justice. He believed in his students and looked to inspire....thank you mr simpson. and to the family i send my love and prayers for peace with you through this hard time.

Eleni Economides

December 29, 2006

Professor Simpson was an exceptional man, full to the brim with knowledge. I ADORED HIM, as I took great confidence and still do in telling everyone he was the height of my academic learning experience. He was a sincere and true gentleman whose kind gestures were misunderstood by many and appreciated by those that were lucky enough to partake in them. I will miss professor Simpson with all my heart, and my condolences to his family. The world has lost an incredible mind.

Kelly Parpovic

December 29, 2006

This man was truly remarkable. I met Dr. Simpson when I transfered to SFSU in 2004. A naive undergrad, Dr. Simpson can take credit for my growth as an academic. He was always there to encourage and to provide constructive criticism. I always looked forward to the mornings when I was able to sit down with him, over coffee of course, to discuss the political occurances of the Middle East and the world at large.
I will never ever forget Dr Simpson. He saw me grow, stumble and overcome. He was not only my advisor but my mentor as well. He will be missed.

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