Michael Spencer Bassis ’66

Michael Spencer Bassis ’66, of Springfield, Va.; Jan. 9. He had a long and successful career in higher education that encompassed roles as professor, dean, and ultimately retiring as president of Westminster College in 2012. During the course of his career, he spent time helping small liberal arts colleges and universities redefine themselves. He enjoyed many passions throughout his lifetime, including baseball, sailing, art, travel, and being a member of Brown’s lacrosse team. He enjoyed collecting art and in retirement, began painting and creating works of his own. He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Mary; four children, including Christina Bassis ’96; eight grandchildren; and two sisters.