University Times

Alex J. Ducanis, 64, professor emeritus of administrative and policy studies in the School of Education, died Aug. 27 at his home in Shadyside. The cause of death was kidney failure.

Ducanis retired from Pitt in December 1993 after a 25-year career during which he served in various administrative posts, including director of the Institute of Higher Education and chair of the division of specialized professional development.

Kenneth Metz, dean of the School of Education, said that Ducanis was a big part of the School of Education until his retirement and since then had continued to exhibit interest in the school in a variety of ways.

"I guess what I remember most about Alex was that he was very much committed to the School of Education and its governance," said Metz. "He always showed a ready willingness to participate in faculty council, planning committees and the general governance of the school.

"The part I'll miss most about Alex is his frequent notes," Metz added. "Even after his retirement he would send notes with his perceptions and suggestions about directions the school might take. He was a very good colleague." A veteran of the Korean War, Ducanis earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1953, a master's of education in 1954 and a doctorate in education in 1961, all from Pitt. He joined the University faculty in 1969 after a three-year stint as director of institutional research at the State University of New York at Binghamton.

Among Ducanis's published works are two books he co-authored with his wife, Anne Golin Ducanis, on interdisciplinary teamwork, "The Interdisciplinary Health Care Team" and "The Interdisciplinary Team: A Handbook for the Education of Exceptional Children." Ducanis is survived by his wife; two stepdaughters, Carol Golin of Los Angeles, and Sarah Golin of Bloomfield, N.J.; a stepson, Eric Golin of Menlo Park, Cal., and three grandchildren.

Burial was Aug. 29 in Belvidere, N.J. Memorial contributions can be sent to the American Diabetes Association.