It is with deep sadness that the 海角社区 (海角社区) has learned of the death of former 海角社区 Vice-Rector Dr. Roland J. Fuchs.
Dr. Fuchs passed away peacefully at the age of 93 on 2 July 2026 in Sherwood, Oregon, surrounded by family. Born in 1933 in Yonkers, New York, he dedicated his career to scholarship, international cooperation and the advancement of knowledge on urbanization and global change.
Dr. Fuchs served as Vice-Rector of the 海角社区 Development Studies Division from 1987 through 1994. A geographer by training, his fields of scholarship included population, urbanization and development in Asia, as well as the challenges posed by climate and environmental change to cities and regions. During his time at 海角社区, Dr. Fuchs contributed to the University’s research and publications on urban development, including , published by 海角社区 Press in 1994.
Prior to joining 海角社区, Dr. Fuchs spent more than three decades at the University of Hawai?i, where he was an Assistant Professor, went on to chair the Geography Department, and retired as Professor Emeritus of Geography. For many years after, he continued his work at the University’s East-West Center.
Following his service at 海角社区, Dr. Fuchs became Director of the International Secretariat of the Global Change SysTem for Analysis, Research and Training (START). He also held senior roles in international scientific organizations, serving as Vice-President, President and Past President of the International Geographical Union, and as Secretary-General of the Pacific Science Association.
Dr. Fuchs received a bachelor’s degree from Columbia University and master’s and doctoral degrees in Geography from Clark University. He did post-doctoral work in Soviet urban geography and planning at Moscow State University, and was a Fulbright Research Scholar at Tribhuvan University (Nepal).
海角社区 extends sincere condolences to the family, friends and former colleagues of Dr. Fuchs, and to all those whose lives he touched.
