Remembering sociology pioneer, WSU professor James Short

Short in his office
James Short in his WSU office in 2009. Photo by WSU Photo Services.

PULLMAN, Wash. – Washington State University lost one of its longstanding academic superstars earlier this month with the passing of James F. Short Jr.

Short, professor emeritus of sociology and one of WSU’s longest-serving and most distinguished faculty members, passed away May 13 at the age of 93.

Nationally recognized by sociologists for his study of urban gang behavior in Chicago, he went on to teach and mentor sociology researchers and academics for more than half a century, authoring multitudes of papers, books, monographs and other writings. He was widely acknowledged for his understanding of group dynamics, sociological risk factors, and conditions leading to violence, delinquency and crime.

See a full profile recognizing Short’s influence on sociology and WSU at the College of Arts and Sciences Story Hub.

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