NORC at the University of Chicago mourns the passing of Phil E. DePoy, who died July 12 at the age of 89. His career spanned decades of public service as a naval analyst and administrator, and he worked to usher NORC into a new era defined by technological advancement and institutional growth.

During his tenure as president and CEO of NORC from 1992 to 2000, we opened our first office in the Chicago Loop while expanding our presence in Washington, D.C. Our organization also established our own Institutional Review Board and secured notable new contract awards, such as the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth 1997 and the Doctorate Data Program.

“Phil had a very meaningful impact on NORC,” said Dan Gaylin, president and CEO of NORC. “He was the first CEO of NORC, which had previously been run by academic directors from the University of Chicago. He launched the initial activities to professionalize the organization so that it could more effectively respond to growing competition. He then served as a trustee for nine years, providing continuity of leadership during this dynamic period in NORC’s history.”

DePoy’s care for staff welfare and his gracious manner were integral parts of his leadership. His legacy of service was matched by wise leadership. He inaugurated a new era of NORC presidents and strengthened our enduring affiliation with the University of Chicago.

Before joining NORC, DePoy was an accomplished analyst and administrator, with a master’s degree in nuclear engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a PhD in chemical engineering from Stanford University. He served with distinction from 1985 to 1990 as president of CNA, an independent nonprofit analytical organization that operates the Center for Naval Analyses, a federally funded research and development center that focuses on operations analysis, systems analysis, and systems engineering. DePoy received the Department of the Navy’s Distinguished Public Service Award, the highest recognition for a civilian, in 1989.

We extend our deepest condolences to Phil’s family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time. His accomplishments and dedication to NORC will always be remembered and celebrated.