GGU Honors the Legacy of Dean Emeritus Paul Fouts

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The life of Professor and Dean Emeritus Paul Fouts, who recently passed away, was honored at Golden Gate University on Wednesday, September 21 in a memorial service for colleagues, friends, and family.

“Paul contributed mightily to GGU’s mission and was a beloved friend to the campus community,” said President David J. Fike. “He will be greatly missed.”

Dean Fouts joined the Ageno School of Business in 1993 and served as Professor of the Management in the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program, Associate Dean, and Dean for a span of 16 years.

“Paul was one of the best men I’ve ever come to know,” reflected former GGU President Philip Friedman, PhD. “He was keen, sharp-witted, passionate, and always knowledgeable. The day I asked him to take on the role of associate dean, Paul accepted and did so brilliantly.”

Paul redesigned the Master of Business Administration program, and was instrumental in the launch of the Information Technology Management, the Master of Science in Project Management, and the Master of Science in Business Analytics programs. He garnered numerous awards from academic journals and received GGU’s Outstanding Service Award and Outstanding Scholarship of Teaching Award.

Former colleagues shared memories of Paul’s iconic dedication to GGU, his unwavering support of faculty and students, and his prodigious institutional knowledge.

“As a colleague, there couldn’t be a better one,” commented former professor and Vice President of Academic Affairs Barbara Karlin. “He was smart and thoughtful. Together we made a great team. He cared deeply about the faculty—each individual person—he cared deeply about his staff. He loved the students.”

Outside of GGU, Paul ran a photography business and was an avid flyer of kites. A trained actor, he was a passionate consumer of theater and music who served as a Theatre Bay Area director and treasurer. In his retirement, he enjoyed motorcycle rides to Northern Montana, Texas, and Arizona among other destinations.

“Paul really appreciated that GGU students didn’t follow a linear path, but started out working in the field,” commented Alison Wellsfry, niece of Paul Fouts, who shared her reflections at the service. “He was thrilled to be part of this educational community that supports students who chose a different path.”

Alumni who would like to make a gift in memory of Dr. Paul Fouts, former Dean of GGU’s Ageno School of Business can contribute at ggu.edu/giving. On the giving Page, select the “AGENO SCHOOL OF BUSINESS DEAN’S FUND FOR EXCELLENCE” in the “I want to support” section, and feel free to dedicate your gift in Memoriam of Dean Fouts.