GVPT Remembers Professor Emeritus Wayne V. McIntosh

Wayne McIntosh

The Department of Government and Politics (GVPT) is deeply saddened to share that Professor Emeritus Wayne V. McIntosh, a cherished member of our community for more than four decades, passed away on December 8, 2025. 

A pillar of GVPT and the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Wayne’s leadership, integrity, kindness, and passion for public law shaped generations of students, faculty, and staff.

“Wayne was more than a colleague—he was a mentor, a friend, and someone whose presence made our days brighter… His influence on me and on the department is immeasurable, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew him,” said GVPT Chair Professor Antoine Banks.

Wayne joined the GVPT faculty in 1983, bringing with him a deep commitment to American political institutions, law and courts, and the values that strengthen democratic life. Over the decades, he became central to the department’s academic and administrative direction, serving as:

  • Director of Undergraduate Studies
  • Associate Chair of GVPT for nearly a decade
  • A trusted advisor to multiple department chairs
  • A steady source of mentorship and institutional knowledge

Former GVPT Chair Professor Jonathan Wilkenfeld, who worked closely with Wayne during a transformative period for the department, recalled his indispensable contributions:

“He was the proverbial person behind the scenes, making things happen… and through it all, he was simply a delight to be with—pleasant, cheerful, and dedicated to the department.”

Wayne’s colleagues consistently describe him as someone who anchored the department with generosity and clarity, whether navigating routine challenges or moments of uncertainty. As Professor Charles Butterworth wrote, 

“Wayne was a marvelous colleague and thoughtful administrator, dedicated to the well-being of students and desirous of keeping things on an even keel whatever the storms.”

At the core of Wayne’s academic life was his dedication to students. His courses on American political institutions and the judiciary sparked intellectual curiosity in thousands of Terps. He was recognized repeatedly for excellence in teaching and mentoring, including:

  • Panhellenic Society Excellence in Teaching Award
  • Lilly-CTE Teaching Fellowship
  • BSOS Excellence in Teaching Award
  • Philip Merrill Presidential Scholar Mentor
  • University of Maryland Faculty Mentor of the Year
  • BSOS Dean’s Medal (2021) – the college’s highest honor

His impact as a mentor echoed across generations. Professor Chryl Laird shared how Wayne helped shape her path from undergraduate to faculty member:

“Wayne was truly a bridge… He saw potential in me early and was unwavering in his support. Even though our interactions weren’t constant, they were always deeply meaningful.”

Professor Shanna Pearson-Merkowitz reflected on Wayne’s influence in graduate school and beyond:

“He created an inclusive and welcoming environment… His joy and smile brought comfort in difficult times. His loss is being felt around the world—even among former students currently abroad.”

Wayne was also an accomplished scholar, authoring six books and many articles. His most recent volume, Property Rights and Neoliberalism: Cultural Demands and Legal Actions (2010), co-edited with Laura Hatcher, continues to inform research on law and political economy. He also secured two multi-year National Science Foundation grants, demonstrating his commitment to elevating the department’s scholarly ambitions.

Even during what he called his “quasi-retirement,” Wayne remained deeply connected to GVPT. When he visited campus, he made time for colleagues, asked about students, and spoke warmly of his family—his wife, his children, and his grandchildren, who were at the center of his life.

Wayne McIntosh shaped GVPT in ways that will be felt for years to come. His leadership, humor, and unwavering care for others helped define what it means to be part of this department. We mourn his passing, and we honor the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind.

Wayne is survived by his wife, best friend, and occasional co-author, Cindy Cates. He leaves behind two cherished daughters, Lea McIntosh Hammi and Emma McIntosh Galdi, as well as his beloved son, Jesse McIntosh. He will also be deeply missed by his grandchildren: Sophie, Elijah, Jace, Shiloh, and Declan.
 

Published on Mon, 12/15/2025 - 12:38