In Memoriam<br/>
About
In Memoriam
Touro Law mourns the passing of Professor Daniel Derby.
“I am saddened and shocked to report that Professor Dan Derby passed away unexpectedly. Professor Derby devoted the better part of his adult life to Touro, starting in 1982, and was beloved by many. We will miss him dearly. Our condolences to Dzung, his wife of fifty years, and to all those who loved him.”
- Harry Ballan, Dean and Professor of Law
“Rest in Peace, Professor Derby. Thank you... for everything. It was a pleasure and an honor to get to know you and to be educated by you. Your impact on countless people will continue to bear fruit for many, many years to come.”
- Sean McLeod, Class of 2016
Dan was the gentlest of souls, and as sweet, generous and kind as they come. I spent four summers teaching with him in China, and four more in Vietnam. Dan’s complete devotion and dedication to the students was unparalleled. No problem was beyond a solution, and no student ever—Ever—was viewed by Dan as not worth going to battle for. He’d be there providing the greatest support for those who were struggling, and Dan’s strength and sheer will power would so often lead to success. He was a man of deep warmth, and real love for so many of his students. We’ve lost a gem—one we must hold dear and never forget.
- Richard Klein, Bruce K. Gould Distinguished Professor of Law
“His loss is deeply felt. He was so dedicated to our students and so knowledgeable about international law. I am grateful for the time we spent together in the Vietnam summer program. We shared many long and engaging conversations, in which he shared wide ranging insights on so many topics. These conversations seemed to have no natural end, and could last for hours. His kindness also knew no end. I will miss those conversations, and his kindness, immensely.”
- Meredith R. Miller, Professor of Law
“It is with the utmost sadness that I found out my professor, mentor, and most of all my friend Daniel Derby passed away today.While Professor Derby had been a pillar at Touro Law since 1982 - throughout most of Touro’s existence - it was his service in Vietnam that was what initially broke the ice for conversation during my first week of Civ Pro 1L year.
Dan Derby was a true hero and served three years as a war correspondent imbedded with our boots on the ground from 1968 to 1971.
I was fortunate to have a once (twice) in a lifetime experience as I lived in Saigon (HCMC) with Professor Derby for two summers and was able to frankly discuss and gain an understanding of Vietnam through all sides of the equation.
Thank you for your service, Sir! Condolences to our entire Touro family and Professor Derby’s wife of over 50 years, Dzung. Rest In Peace Professor Derby.”
- Eric Turetzky, Class of 2018
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