The Tufts University community is mourning the sudden loss of Sam Sommers, a beloved professor, distinguished researcher, and dedicated chair of the Department of Psychology. Sommers passed away on March 16 at the age of 49, leaving behind a legacy of academic excellence, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to justice.
A Dedicated Educator and Leader
Sommers joined Tufts University in 2003 as an assistant professor, where he quickly became a pillar of the psychology department. His expertise and passion for teaching propelled him to the rank of full professor, and he served multiple terms as department chair. Additionally, he was the director of the Racial Diversity & Equity Lab, where his research played a pivotal role in shaping discussions on race, social perception, prejudice, and the intersection of psychology and law.
Bárbara Brizuela, dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, reflected on Sommers’ impact:
“I, like so many, was immediately impressed by his thoughtfulness, caring, warmth, insight, and commitment to justice. This is a tragic loss, and it will take us all time to process the grief of losing such a pillar of our Tufts community.”
A Colleague and Mentor Remembered for His Kindness
Those who worked alongside Sommers describe him as an exceptionally compassionate and principled leader. His colleagues recall his generosity, fairness, and ability to bring humor into even the most serious conversations.
“Sam was generous with his time, always thoughtful, exceedingly fair and principled, a fierce advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion, and the first to inject light into serious conversations with his quick wit and keen mind,” said Heather Urry, professor of psychology.
Professor Lisa Shin echoed this sentiment, speaking to his unwavering kindness and dedication to others:
“He had genuine compassion and phenomenal perspective-taking skills that together made him a stellar teacher, advisor, leader, colleague, and friend. He taught us all so much through both words and actions, and we are truly better people for having known him.”
Shin emphasized the profound loss felt by the department, stating, “Each one of us is deeply affected by the loss of our dear friend and colleague, and it feels difficult to comprehend how we will manage to function going forward. However, Sam would have wanted us to forge ahead, fighting for what is right and showing kindness and respect to others, and I feel confident that we will do just that.”
A Passion for Psychology and the Legal System
Sommers’ academic career was driven by an interest in the intersection of psychology and the legal system. His research on eyewitness memory, prejudice, and jury decision-making helped illuminate critical issues within the criminal justice system. His passion for these topics was first sparked as an undergraduate at Williams College, where he took a course that combined psychology and law—two disciplines he felt naturally complemented each other.
“What really interests me about the law is the human dynamic of what goes on in the courtroom,” Sommers once shared. His work in this field not only advanced scholarly discussions but also had real-world implications for justice and fairness in legal proceedings.
A Lasting Legacy
Sommers’ passing leaves an immeasurable void within the Tufts community and beyond. His influence as a mentor, advocate, and educator will continue to resonate with the countless students, colleagues, and friends who had the privilege of knowing him.
As the Tufts community grieves this profound loss, there is a shared commitment to honoring Sommers’ legacy by continuing his advocacy for diversity, justice, and compassionate leadership—values he embodied in every aspect of his work.
He is remembered not just as an esteemed academic but as a kind and thoughtful soul who made the world a better place through his dedication to knowledge, fairness, and human connection.