In Memoriam: David Heifetz

David Heifetz, chair and director, Interdisciplinary Studies and the Program for Adult College Education (PACE), died on May 24, not long after retiring due to health problems. A professor at California State University, Dominguez Hills for 30 years, he earned a bachelor's degree in history from Reed College in Oregon, followed by a master's degree and doctorate from UC Irvine. He was also a Fulbright Scholar in England for two years.

“David's first concern was always about students,” says Garry Hart, dean, College of Liberal Arts.  “He worked hard at helping them meet the requirements so that they could graduate and he also was constantly recruiting new students for programs at Dominguez Hills.”

In 2003, Heifetz received the highest honor that is bestowed upon an individual by the county of Los Angeles, for providing accessible quality education for county employees. A two-year partnership with CSUDH resulted in 500 county employees receiving their degrees through PACE.

Heifetz is survived by his wife, Gayle; his daughter, Emily Heifetz; his son, Alex Heifetz; his sister, Lila Heifetz-Pierce; and his niece, Suzetta.

- Joanie Harmon