Austin College Mourns the Passing of Dr. Jack Pierce

The Austin College community is saddened by the sudden death on Monday, September 26 of Dr. Jack Pierce, director of health services and professor of biology. Dr. Pierce had been a beloved member of the Austin College faculty since 1967.

Dr. Pierce, 77, had served as the faculty athletics representative for the Kangaroos since 1996. In this capacity, he worked closely with all Austin College student-athletes on matters of eligibility and was stalwart in his dedication and support in helping them achieve success both academically and athletically.

"There was not a better advocate for our student-athletes and coaches than Jack Pierce," said athletics director David Norman. "We will miss his leadership, but we will miss one of our greatest fans. If he was in town, he attended every game, match, or contest. He was a true 'Roo."

Over the course of his five decades at Austin College, Dr. Pierce became a fixture at every home sporting event. Just the day before his passing, he spent his afternoon rooting for the Kangaroo volleyball team in Hughey Gymnasium while also finding the time to watch the men's and women's soccer teams compete in their home matches.

"Dr. Pierce was not only a mentor to a huge number of pre-med students that have passed through Austin College, but a devoted supporter of athletics," said Kylie Peterson, a senior on the women's soccer team and current president of the Student Athlete Advisory Council. "He found time between securing students internships at local hospitals and countless personalized recommendation letters to attend as many home games for each sport as he could manage. It was amazing, for me personally, to see him at one of my soccer games over the weekend and then be in his office the following Monday talking about MCAT scores and upcoming deadlines. Dr. Pierce truly loved his work and cared about each of his students on an individual level. He will be greatly missed by many, both on the field and in the classroom."

His unwavering loyalty and tireless work with the students did not go unnoticed, either. He was twice named the recipient of the T. Ellis Lockhart Spirit Award, given each year to the Austin College faculty or staff member who shows special interest and support for Kangaroo athletics. Dr. Pierce first received this award in 2008, and again this year, when the members of the Student Athlete Advisory Council voted to honor him.

"Jack Pierce will be greatly missed by 'Roo Nation," said vice president for student and affairs and athletics Tim Millerick. "His service to the College bridged many areas in very special and positive ways. While an outstanding teacher, he was also a special advisor to many students, particularly those in health services. His support of various student organizations and athletics was unequaled. He was the hub of the wheel that had many spokes, both academic and in student life."

Dr. Pierce first came to Austin College in 1967, and held the Mary W. and Foster G. McGaw Chair in Health Sciences. Though much of his time was involved in serving as Health Sciences advisor, he continued to teach "Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy" and "Developmental Biology." He was active in the state health science advisors' organization (TAAHP), serving as secretary-treasurer (1991-1993) and as president (1994).

Dr. Pierce earned a bachelor's and a master's degree at Western Michigan University, and his Ph.D. at the University of Texas at Austin in 1968. For several years, he has spent his summers conducting research at Oregon State University's Hatfield Marine Science Center.

"Jack's contributions to Austin College are without measure and there will be occasions in the near future to gather the Austin College community together in his memory," said President Marjorie Hass. "We send condolences, love, and support to his family and to all who mourn his loss." 

He is survived by his son John, daughter-in-law Elizabeth, daughter Laura, son-in-law Jonathan, grandson Pierce, and soon-to-be second grandson.

A memorial service will be held in Dr. Pierce's honor at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, October 1 in Wynne Chapel at Austin College.