Professor Emeritus of Economics Michael Lawlor passes away

September 26, 2022

We are sad to announce that Professor Emeritus of Economics Michael Lawlor passed away on Sept. 21 following a long battle with multiple system atrophy (MSA), a rare neurodegenerative disease.

Professor Lawlor and his family moved to North Carolina in 1986. He taught for 29 years at Wake Forest, and was involved in founding both an interdisciplinary Social Science Research Seminar and the Health Policy and Administration Minor. He was passionate about integrating a liberal arts perspective into the study of the economy to facilitate equitable social progress. Professor Lawlor had many friendships and collaborations with colleagues across campus, the country and the world.

The family suggests donations in Professor Lawlor’s memory be made to the MSA Coalition or to the Wake Forest University Department of Economics in support of the Michael Lawlor Prize (which supports excellence in macroeconomics through undergraduate research assistants’ work with faculty members).

We extend our condolences to Professor Lawlor’s family and friends, as well as those at Wake Forest who had the opportunity to know him. An obituary can be found here.

Wake Forest offers support and counseling services for faculty and staff. The Chaplain’s Office can be reached at 336-758-5210. The Employee Assistance Program is available at 336-716-5493.