Tom Conley, Beloved Kirkland House Master / Faculty Dean Passes
For those of you who knew Tom Conley, he was quite the amazing man and a wonderful leader of the Kirkland community from 2000 to 2020. As one of my graduating College class's representatives from Kirkland, I particularly recall his distinctive warmth, his welcoming of Senators to the JCR after IOP events, his popular wine lectures, and his gentle counsel. He genuinely cared about all in our house. I also have fond memories of him introducing me to Brandy and Jessie; they brought out a wonderfully playful side of him as well. Professor Conley's Wikipedia page is at https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Conley_(scholar).
Here is a short excerpt sent to some Kirkland Alumni by current Kirkland leaders, Downing and Peter:
"We write with sad news. Tom Conley, who served with Verena Conley as Faculty Dean of Kirkland House from 2000 to 2020, passed away on July 24.
"Many of you knew Tom during your years in the House. He was a professor of Art, Film, and Romance Languages who wrote about French literature, maps, and film. He and Verena led Kirkland for twenty years, and much of the House we know today took shape during their tenure. They revived a dormant Shakespeare Night that grew into the Kirkland Drama Society, began Kirkland’s special relationship with the Institute of Politics, championed our famed Conversations with Kirkland series, expanded the Kirkland House Gym, and led the redesign of the House shield. Many of you will also remember Tom’s wine seminar in the JCR, his presence at IMs and performances, and his joining hands with the KDS cast at the final bow. Those who knew him remember his enthusiasm, warmth, and graciousness."
Memories of Tom are currently being collected to share with Verena and their family. If you want to send them something, please DM me for the contact information.
