Dear Colleagues,

I share with you the sad news that John Gleeson, Senior Lecturer Emeritus and founding Director Emeritus of the Center for Celtic Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, passed away on October 30, 2020.

John moved to Milwaukee from his native Dublin in 1980. He received an MA degree in Applied History and an MFA in Film from UW-Milwaukee. John lectured at UWM for several decades. He was a Senior Lecturer, first in Ethnic Studies and subsequently in the Center for Celtic Studies. John helped found the Center for Celtic Studies in 2001 and was a Co-Director until 2013. He taught courses in Irish language, culture, film, folk belief and religious practice. He designed, created, and coordinated study abroad programs in Ireland, introducing countless students to memorable study abroad experiences. John was also a regular contributor to print and broadcast media on Irish issues.

John officially retired from UWM in 2013 but continued to teach Irish language classes and workshops for Celtic Studies as an ad hoc lecturer. A colleague shared that on a volunteer basis, John subsequently remained deeply and productively involved with the activities of the Center for Celtic Studies, and in mentoring and creating opportunities for its students.

For additional information, please see John’s obituary online. Our condolences to John’s family and to the many others whose lives he touched.

Take care,

Johannes

Johannes Britz
Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs