Professor emeritus Dalton Kehoe passed away on July 8. Kehoe had a distinguished career at York, spanning more than 50 years.
He was a teacher, scholar, public speaker and an organizational development practitioner. Kehoe came to York in 1967 and was the first faculty member hired by the Social Science Division. He joined the Communication Studies Program in the Division in the early 90s and developed the “Interpersonal and Organizational Communication” stream, creating second, third and fourth-year courses. Additionally, he played a key role developing seminars on leadership communication for the Executive Education Centre of the Schulich School of Business.
Kehoe’s enthusiasm and charisma were some of the qualities cited by students and alumni who nominated him for TVO’s Big Ideas Best Lecturer Competition back in 2006, which he won.
“Dalton was an engaged scholar, a generous teacher and a wonderful colleague. He shaped the way we teach and communicate at LA&PS,” shared J.J. McMurtry, Dean, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies.”
He continued to make an impact on the Department of Communications Studies, with the Dalton Kehoe Prize, given to a second-year student who achieved the highest GPA in the “Communication in Everyday Life” course.
Ganaele Langlois, professor and Chair, Department of Communication & Media Studies said; “Dalton was an infatigable supporter of the department for the many years he taught there and was central in establishing its longevity and reputation. He impacted so many students over the years through his teaching and through the Dalton Kehoe award.”
Dalton was a best-selling author and the first academic in North America to use live streaming technology. After he retired, he became the second Canadian academic to be invited by the Great Courses Company of Chantilly, Virginia to create and deliver the course Effective Communication Skills which continues to be a top-seller.
Dalton Kehoe will be greatly missed by all those who had the privilege of knowing him. Online memories and condolences may be shared on peaceful transition.
The Employee Assistance and Family Program (EFAP) is available for individuals who may be feeling overwhelmed by this sad news.