Ruth Prouse Morgan, who served as a professor of political science at Southern Methodist University in Dallas for 20 years and was the university’s first woman provost from 1986–1993, died on March 8 in Raleigh, North Carolina. She was 86 years old.
A native of Berkeley, California, Dr. Morgan held a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Texas in 1956. She earned a master’s degree and a Ph.D., both in political science, from Louisiana State University.
Dr. Morgan joined the faculty at Southern Methodist University in 1966 as an assistant professor of political science. She was promoted to full professor in 1974. Dr. Morgan was the first woman elected by the university’s faculty as chair of the faculty senate. In 1987 she became the first woman provost of the university. Dr. Morgan served on the editorial board of the Presidential Studies Quarterly for 26 years.
“Ruth Morgan left an indelible mark on SMU,” said R. Gerald Turner, president of Southern Methodist University. “She helped shape SMU’s stellar academics, leading our expert faculty and increasing SMU’s reputation for excellence. She also gave her time and energies to creating an environment of equity and inclusivity. We are so grateful for all she contributed to our community, and SMU will miss her passion, charisma, and intelligence.”