Remembering Wayne McIntosh: Leader, Scholar, Teacher, Friend

Professor Emeritus Wayne McIntosh, who twice served as interim dean of the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, and who was a respected member of the faculty of the Department of Government and Politics (GVPT), died on Dec. 8, 2025. In his final days, Wayne was surrounded by family and friends, and was in touch with many colleagues. 

Wayne’s longstanding service to BSOS also included the role of associate dean for faculty affairs and graduate education, the role of special assistant to the dean, and holding leadership positions in GVPT as director of undergraduate programs and as associate chair for nearly a decade.

“Wayne was a friend to all, and his knowledge of and love for BSOS was unparalleled,” Dean Susan Rivera said. “Wayne helped me to quickly learn about and become a part of our college and campus communities; he was invaluable to every person with whom he worked. His compassion and humor were evident in all he did, as a teacher, an administrator, and a scholar in the field of government and politics. We have lost a friend, a colleague, and a man who dedicated his life’s work to understanding and improving our democracy.”

In 2021, Wayne received the BSOS Dean’s Medal, the highest honor bestowed by the college, in recognition of his service, his loyalty, his institutional knowledge, and his desire to always improve the college and the university. The medal was conferred by then-dean, Professor Greg Ball of the Department of Psychology. 

After joining the GVPT faculty in 1983, Wayne focused his research and teaching on American political institutions, with a particular emphasis on law and courts. 

Wayne had a tremendous impact on his students, many of whom considered him to be a trusted guide, through their academic careers, and beyond. One such former student is Paul Mandell, GVPT ’95, a member of the University of Maryland, College Park Foundation Board of Trustees. 

As Wayne’s guidance and support had been so instrumental to Mandell’s career, Mandell established the Wayne V. McIntosh Endowed Undergraduate Scholarship in Government and Politics in 2010. Thus, numerous students have learned about and benefitted from both Mandell’s generosity and Wayne’s legacy of scholarly curiosity and passion.

“Wayne was a treasured professor of mine who became a lifelong mentor and friend. The BSOS community will not be the same without him,” Mandell said. 

In addition to many more accolades, Wayne was a Philip Merrill Presidential Scholar Mentor; was named a University of Maryland Faculty Mentor of the Year and a Lilly-CTE Teaching Fellow; received the Excellence in Teaching Award from the Panhellenic Society; and was presented with a BSOS Excellence in Teaching Award.

Part of Wayne’s focus as a leader was to encourage and help faculty members in competing for external funding. He led by example, gaining two multi-year grants awarded by the National Science Foundation. 

He published many works during his career. Wayne’s most recent book, “Property Rights and Neo-liberalism: Cultural Demands and Legal Actions” (co-edited with Laura Hatcher), was published in 2010.

Wayne earned a B.A. in Political Science from the University of South Carolina in 1973; an M.A. in Political Science from the University of Wichita, Kansas in 1974; and a Ph.D. in Political Science from Washington University, St. Louis in 1981. 

At the heart of Wayne’s studies and his work were a love of country and the strong desire to create a more perfect union.

“Wayne was more than a colleague—he was a mentor, a friend, and someone whose presence made our days brighter. His sharp wit and wonderful sense of humor lifted our spirits on even the most challenging days. 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.

After his admittedly quasi-retirement from UMD in 2021, Wayne spent much of his time with his wife, children and grandchildren. When he visited campus, he spoke of his family often, and with great admiration and fondness.

While much of his work was serious and focused, Wayne was known by colleagues for his ready laugh; his concern for the well-being of all the students, faculty and staff he encountered; his willingness to listen and consider many viewpoints; and his pride that the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences is an extraordinary and essential part of the University of Maryland.

“Dr. McIntosh was a steady and trusted leader for BSOS and for our campus. His dedication to the college and his genuine care for colleagues and students made a lasting impact on our community. We are deeply saddened by his passing and extend our condolences to his family and all who worked with him,” said Senior Vice President and Provost Jennifer King Rice.

Published on Tue, Dec 9, 2025 - 2:44PM