Written by Dr. Barry Friedman, Professor of Political Science

 

Eight years ago, news that Dr. K. Michael Reese, professor of criminal justice, had received a devastating diagnosis of aggressive prostate cancer reached the members of NGCSU’s Department of Political Science and Criminal Justice.  This fierce affliction has hung over our heads menacingly since then.  At the same time, Mike responded to this threat by fighting it like a lion, which is the most compelling reason for his remaining alive for 8 yr.  Most of all, Mike cherished his wife Susan and their children, and he summoned all of his strength to maximize the amount of time that he would have with them.  Mike never devoted less than the full measure of his capability whenever he took on a challenge.  As Mike fought this fearsome disease, he had the devoted love of his family and the staunch support and fellowship of his NGCSU/UNG co-workers and students on his side.  On Friday, July 26, 2019 Mike’s valiant battle concluded.  But we will cherish our memories of Mike as an engaging lecturer on legal topics, an acclaimed scholar, a loyal member of the university’s faculty, and the best friend that anyone could have.

 

To honor Dr. Reese, we are sharing an article that appeared in the October 2017 edition of the Department of Political Science and International Affairs’ newsletter, The PSIA Review which featured a special PSSA Crossfire event honoring Dr. Reese as he prepared to retire:

 

http://blog.ung.edu/psia-news/mike-reese/

 

The “Michael Reese Award” has been established by the department in memory of Dr. Reese.  The award will be presented annually to the graduating senior with the highest grade point average in the political science pre-law program in spring 2020.