William L. Reese II, Ph.D.
William L. Reese II, Ph.D., professor emeritus of philosophy and founder of a University at Albany center named for him, passed away Sept. 22, 2017.
A graduate of Drury College and the University of Chicago, Reese taught religion and philosophy at several institutions prior to joining the UAlbany faculty. He was the author of 12 books, including the Dictionary of Philosophy and Religion and Philosophers Speak of God. Reese traveled extensively and earned many awards, including a Ford Foundation grant and a Fulbright. After retiring at age 82, he taught for OASIS, the continuing-education enrichment program for adults.
For nearly 40 years, Reese advocated the establishment of a campus location where retired faculty could continue their intellectual pursuits while promoting the University’s mission of education, research, and public. Established in 2006 in University Administration Building (UAB) 134, the center became known as the William L. Reese II, Ph.D., Emeritus Center in 2015. Its programs are open to current and retired faculty and staff, as well as to the public.
Reese’s survivors include two daughters, a son-in-law, and two grandchildren.