Longtime Albers professor of business law David Arnesen passed away on December 11, 2021.
Quoting from President Eduardo Peñalver’s announcement: ‘A graduate of Seattle University’s School of Law, Professor Arnesen served on the Albers faculty for nearly four decades and in that time made an indelible impact on our institution. Highly valued and well regarded throughout the university, he was frequently sought for significant leadership roles within and outside Albers, including chair of his department, acting dean, and as the university’ Faculty Athletic Representative.’
‘Above all, Professor Arnesen was a consummate teacher and scholar. He made a difference in the lives of countless students and earned numerous awards and recognitions, including the University Distinguished Teaching Award from the Seattle University Alumni Association in 2007. Equally committed to scholarship, he was widely published and in 2014 was selected as a Fulbright Specialist.’
Below are just some of the many testimonials on social media that came in after the announcement of his passing.
One of my all-time favorite professors. After I took my first class with him, I added any other class he was offering as part of my MBA. In negotiations, Arnesen said to my opponent once 'to be careful of that one' [referring to me]. I received the compliment with such pride and confidence that it encouraged me to pursue a focus on negotiations in my career. Thank you for your work, sir. You will be missed.
Ana Joy MBA '15I took every class he taught while I was at Albers. He was a wonderful professor.
Alexandra Griffin MBA '20, MSF '20This one hurts. One of the best and most engaging professors I’ve ever had.
Babar Ali MBA '08
I unfortunately never had him as a teacher but saw him speak several times. What an incredible instructor. My most vivid memory is the debate he had with the guy from the AFL-CIO. Even that guy said that Arnesen was the best debater he’d ever shared the stage with.
Adam Slind Economics '95He hands down taught some of my most memorable grad school courses.
Aaron Katz MBA '11Heartbreak! One of the best.
Tina O'Brien Philosophy '89, Not For Profit Leadership '98We lost a good man and a kind soul.
Jim Dwyer Marketing '69
I’m sad to read this. Law never interested me, but Arnesen somehow made real estate law super fun for me. One of my favorite MBA classes!
Tuquynh Tran MBA '09My first interaction with David was taking his class on real estate law during my MBA studies. His passion for the subject and very engaging approach was a big reason I decided to go to law school/pursue a JD/MBA. If I had to describe David in one word, it would be 'Great'. RIP, Professor – despite your passing your influence will live on in so many ways.
Brooke Garberding MBA '04A teacher, and a colleague, for the ages.
Bill Weis Management Professor
