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Warner Professor, Colleague, and Friend Retires After 34 Years
 “If there was ever an educator who epitomized excellence in teaching and research, it was Professor Tyll van Geel,” says Dr. Joseph Scanlan, 1995 Warner doctoral graduate.
Tyll van Geel, Ed.D., J.D., served on the education and political science faculty at the University of Rochester from 1972 until December 2006. He was the Earl B. Taylor Professor and chair of the educational leadership program at Warner. A renowned scholar of education law and applied ethical issues in education, van Geel has published more than four books, numerous articles, and chapters in scholarly publications.
He is popular among students and is known for his fascinating and demanding classes, intellectual conversations, and numerous publications in educational law and ethics. Students and colleagues often refer to him as a leader, one at the foundation of our organization, whose commitment, effort, intelligent direction, skillful execution, and integrity went noticed by all.
Heather Tipaldos, a graduate student, sees “van Geel as representing a strong spirit and demonstrating dedication that she and other graduate students strive to achieve.” She credits van Geel for patiently guiding and mentoring her to find success and fulfillment in her academic and professional pursuits. Dr. Joseph Scanlan says, “It was an honor and privilege to have worked under Professor van Geel’s guidance and to have known him as a professional and a friend. I could not have had a better person to work with en route to finishing my doctoral degree.”
Van Geel has advised students, and beyond this advisory role, he was a mentor and friend to many at Warner, providing guidance and resources helpful to countless graduate students.
In addition to his scholarly work, van Geel was instrumental in designing the educational leadership program. Brian Brent, assistant dean for graduate studies, credits Tyll for being directly responsible for the accelerated dissertation and being a huge influence on Warner’s current program. “At the close of his 34-year career, van Geel was still most interested in designing a program that would serve the students best and he continually looked to improve the program. He never once made a decision where he put his personal interests before the interests of the program and his colleagues. He is one of the rarest leaders one can find,” adds Brent, who will truly miss van Geel’s leadership, friendship, and mentoring.
Tyll van Geel has influenced all at Warner. His leadership, wisdom, mentoring, knowledge, and friendship will be missed greatly. Warner will honor Professor van Geel on Friday, February 9 at 4 p.m. where he will give a valedictory address to be followed by a reception. If you are interested in attending, please contact Danielle Ianni at dianni@warner.rochester.edu.
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