B.U. Bridge is published by the Boston University Office of University Relations.

Contact Us

Staff

Joseph F. Meisels, dean emeritus of Boston University's School of Social Work, died on May 1. He was 89.

	Joseph F. Meisels Photo by BU Photo Services

Meisels was born in Tamapol, Poland, then moved to Vienna with his family, where his interest in theater and the arts was redirected because of emerging Austrian anti-Semitism. Denied the completion of his graduate studies by government edicts, Meisels began to work with children -- a step that shaped the remainder of his life.

After Hitler rose to power, Meisels' wife, Magda, found refuge with relatives in Stockholm while he left for the United States. The couple was later reunited in Lincoln, Nebr.

Prior to coming to Boston University, Meisels' studies in Nebraska, Pittsburgh, and Minnesota led to a doctorate in social work. He was a caseworker, field researcher, and administrator at the Jewish Federation in Kansas City, and taught at Kansas University. He served as SSW dean from 1968 to 1977, and after retiring from BU he continued to serve on the board of Boston Children's Services as well as on the local and national boards of the National Association of Social Workers.

"Dean Meisels was keenly aware of student educational needs during the social changes of the late '60s and early '70s," says Wilma Peebles-Wilkins, dean of SSW. "He created opportunities for students to evaluate courses and participate more in the school."

Meisels is survived by two daughters, Linda and Ellen, son-in-law Steven Brion-Meisels, and granddaughters Gretchen and Sophia. A graveside service was held on Sunday, May 6, at Sharon Memorial Park in Sharon. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date.

Donations may be sent to the Dean Joseph F. Meisels Prize, BU School of Social Work, 264 Bay State Road, Boston, MA 02215.

11 May 2001
Boston University
Office of University Relations