Harrisburg – Feb. 11, 2015 – State Sen. Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) issued the following statement regarding the death of Dr. John E. Murray, Jr., chancellor and professor of law at Duquesne University. Murray’s death was announced today.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Murray’s family and his legion of friends today as we mourn his death. He was an outstanding teacher, public servant and scholar whose work will impact lives for years to come. Dr. Murray was a life-changing teacher, but an even better person. He lived an extraordinary life and provided insight, advice and counsel for students and public officials for more than 50 years.
“Dr. Murray was widely regarded as the preeminent expert on contracts and the Uniform Commercial Code. His work,Murray on Contracts, has been used by law professors and students for many years and has been cited in judicial opinions by numerous courts. He was an author and teacher without peer who was able to make even reluctant law students understand the law’s complex beauty.
“As President of Duquesne University, he guided the school through a very tumultuous period and helped restore its national reputation. In civic affairs, as chair of ComPAC 21, Dr. Murray used his leadership skills, calm demeanor and balanced approach to craft recommendations that reformed Allegheny County government.
“Dr. Murray was an exceptional person who looked for, and found, good in virtually everyone he met. He was a transformative figure in the history of Duquesne University, the legal community and families throughout our region.”
Contact:
Stacey Witalec| Press Secretary
535 Main Capitol | Harrisburg, Pa 17120
Phone:(717)772-2368 | Cell:(717)877-2997
www.senatorcosta.com
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