(DePaul University/Jeff Carrion)
It is with sadness that we have learned of the death of Cathy R. May, 58, long-time professor of the Department of Political Science. May first came to DePaul as an undergraduate student in the 1980s. She subsequently earned her Ph.D. at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, and returned to DePaul's Department of Political Science where she taught for more than 20 years.
A beloved daughter of the late Margaret (nee Alterio) and the late Robert May. A cherished sister of Robert (Frank Rodriguez) May-Rodriguez, Jerry (Cheryl) May, David (Kym) May and the late William May; Loving aunt of Makayla, Emily, Rachel, Mallory, Marissa, Stephanie, Amanda, Rebecca, Bobby, Anthony, Billy, Angelina, Gia and Nick. In addition to being a loving aunt, she was a teacher and friend to her 10 nieces and four nephews, who brought her so much joy.
A dedicated professor, she was widely known as one of the most enthusiastic, thoughtful, and caring educators on campus. She taught a range of courses including political theory, American foreign policy, and food and politics, among other topics. May also was the director of the Political Science internship program for over a decade, and was instrumental in helping students find career tracks both before and after their time at DePaul. She was beloved by her students and went above and beyond to set them up for future success.
May was deeply committed to issues of social justice. She was a fearless advocate for equity in the classroom, department meetings, and public life. She was an engaging public speaker and deeply interested in interrogating ideas. Everyone who knew May respected the strength of her convictions, her integrity, and her intellectual acumen.
May also loved to travel and always looked forward her to next adventure. She was a big foodie, and loved to throw dinner parties that would inevitably erupt into dance parties featuring always a solo performance of a Barbra Streisand song. Her vibrancy has left a lasting impact on the incredible community of friends, family, students, and colleagues that she built over her lifetime.