Communication

Marquette University mourns the loss of Dr. James Scotton

Marquette University mourns the loss of Dr. James Scotton, former dean of the College of Journalism and longtime professor in the Diederich College of Communication, who passed away on Sunday, May 28, at 91 years old. 

James spent 37 years at Marquette, arriving in 1978 as the dean of the College of Journalism. He spent six years in that role, later serving as a department chair, a graduate director and an associate professor of journalism and media studies. 

James was well travelled, with his teaching and research taking him to Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East. He had Fulbright appointments in Uganda, China and at Nairobi University in Kenya. 

He retired in 2015. Upon his retirement, the Diederich College of Communication created the James F. Scotton Award for Excellence in Data Driven Journalism in his honor. 

A full obituary is available online. A memorial celebration will take place on Thursday, June 15, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Feerick Funeral Home, 2025 E. Capitol Dr. in Shorewood. 

Please remember James, his family and friends in prayer.