Sam Sommers, an esteemed professor and chair of the Department of Psychology at Tufts University, passed away on March 16 at the age of 49. A dedicated educator, researcher, and advocate for equity and diversity, he left a lasting impact on the field of social psychology and the lives of those he mentored.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sam Sommers |
| Date of Birth | Not Available |
| Date of Passing | March 16, 2024 |
| Occupation | Professor, Researcher, Author |
| Institution | Tufts University |
| Fields of Study | Social Psychology, Racism, Law & Psychology |
| Education | B.A., Williams College (1997); Ph.D., University of Michigan (2002) |
| Survived By | Wife Marilyn, Daughters Abby and Sophie |
A Passionate Educator and Researcher
Joining Tufts University in 2003 as an assistant professor, Sommers quickly established himself as a respected academic, eventually rising to full professor and chair of the Department of Psychology. He was also the director of the Racial Diversity & Equity Lab, where he explored the psychological causes and consequences of racism.
His colleagues described him as compassionate, fair, and deeply committed to justice. His dedication to diversity and inclusion was evident in his work and interactions, making him a pillar of the Tufts community.
Contributions to Psychology and Law
An experimental social psychologist, Sommers conducted groundbreaking research on racial diversity, group decision-making, and legal psychology. His 2006 study in the Journal of Personality & Social Psychology demonstrated how diverse juries make more careful and informed decisions. His research on the fallibility of eyewitness memory also influenced discussions on criminal justice reform.
In 2011, he co-authored a paper highlighting how white Americans increasingly perceived themselves as victims of racism, despite persistent racial disparities. His work helped shape contemporary conversations on race, discrimination, and bias.
Legacy and Publications
Sommers was a co-author of the widely used textbooks Invitation to Psychology and Social Psychology. He also wrote books for general audiences, including Situations Matter: Understanding How Context Transforms Your World and This Is Your Brain on Sports, co-authored with L. Jon Wertheim.
Beyond academia, he was a passionate New York Yankees fan, a devoted family man, and a lover of Seinfeld, often using the show’s humor to illustrate psychological concepts in his classes.
Final Thoughts
Sam Sommers’ passing is an immense loss to the academic community and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His work, wisdom, and warmth will continue to inspire future generations. He is survived by his wife Marilyn and daughters Abby and Sophie, who carry forward his legacy of kindness and intellectual curiosity.
