WILMINGTON — The university community that James “Jim” Leutze served for more than a decade will honor him this Friday, Aug. 21.
The former chancellor passed away last month at age 90. Leutze was UNCW’s second chancellor, holding the position from 1990 until 2003. A public memorial will take place to celebrate his life and legacy at 2 p.m. in the Lumina Theater on the UNCW campus.
Leutze oversaw the university at a time of tremendous growth, wherein he increased enrollment by 3,600 students and improved university retention and graduation rates. The campus expanded to house over 90 buildings including three new residence halls, the student recreation center, athletic facilities and Lakeside Hall (now named Leutze Hall).
READ MORE: James Leutze, former UNCW chancellor, passes away at 90
He was born in Charleston, South Carolina, but graduated from the University of Maryland, University of Miami and Duke University, studying history. Leutze also served as a captain in the U.S. Airforce from 1960 to 1963.
He also served on multiple boards, including the North Carolina Progress Board, the board of directors for the Kenan Institute-Asia, the Daniel D. and Elizabeth H. Cameron Foundation, the Donald R. Watson Foundation and as a trustee of the George Marshall Foundation.
He leaves behind three children.
An ice cream social will follow his service in the Clock Tower Lounge.
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