Steve Poe Memorial
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing
of Dr. Steve C. Poe, Professor of Political Science at
the University of North Texas. Dr. Poe suffered a heart
attack while enjoying one of his favorite activities –
playing tennis with his daughters. He is survived by his
wife Sunny and three daughters, Mary, Jamie, and Megan.
Steve Poe received his PhD from the University of Iowa
in 1989 and joined the faculty of the Department of Political
Science at the University of North Texas in 1989. Steve
Poe was a pioneer in the study of human rights studies.
His teaching and research in that field have made him
a well-respected scholar in the field. He has always been
passionate about his work, and he sincerely believed that
his passion is what allowed him to be successful. Aside
from making a significant contribution to our understanding
of international politics, Dr. Poe was actively involved
in human rights organizations, such as the local chapter
of the Center for the Survivors of Torture.
Steve Poe was the first Johnie Christian Family Peace
Professor from 1998-2000 and the founder of UNT’s
Peace Studies Program, which is the only Peace Studies
program in the region that offers a minor and a certificate.
He also took the lead in establishing four endowed scholarships
in Peace Studies at UNT. He had been serving as Editor-in-Chief
of International Studies Quarterly since 2003.
Dr. Poe was a favorite among students because of his
accessibility and his genuine concern for the welfare
of his students. During his time at UNT he won almost
every teaching award for which he was eligible, and deserved
them all. While a professor at the University of North
Texas, he accumulated a following of students whom he
inspired both professionally and personally. His doctoral
students have gone on to build successful careers as teachers
and researchers. Dr. Poe far exceeded his duties as professor,
serving for many years as a mentor to students involved
in the McNair Program and also as an unofficial mentor
to all. The McNair Program pairs faculty with promising
students who are the first in their family to attend college.
One of Steve’s McNair advisees went on to earn a
law degree from Harvard and is currently working on a
Ph.D. at George Washington. Another is in the Ph.D. program
at Binghamton University. He has mentored more McNair
scholars than any other faculty at this university and
all have gone on to successful careers.
Dr. Poe was a dedicated husband, father, teacher, and
scholar, and he managed to excel in all these roles. As
an avid sports fan and former college athlete, he always
managed to make time for recreation, using sports as a
way to bond with colleagues and students alike. Those
who spent time with Dr. Poe will miss him dearly, and
he will be remembered by all for his kindness, generosity,
and sincere interest in the lives of others.
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