January 22, 2001

Lucille "Lu" Nahemow, 67, a professor of family studies, died Dec. 26.

Nahemow, a licensed clinical psychologist, joined the UConn faculty in 1986. Her main area of interest was gerontology and she started what has become the Center for Aging and Human Development.

Her work had a significant impact, says Thomas Blank, associate dean and professor of family studies. "Her original development of a theory of how older people relate to their environments with Powell Lawton, had a major impact on the field of gerontology," he says. "She continued to explore that, especially in relation to older persons with disabilities."

Nahemow was also a "great contributor to our undergraduate program," says Blank. "And she was fun to have around."

Nahemow co-authored a book of medical case studies, Geriatric Diagnostics, in 1983 and Humor and Aging in 1986. She also helped write a manual on caring for victims of Alzheimer's disease.

Nahemow earned an undergraduate degree from Brooklyn College and a doctorate in social psychology from Columbia University. Before coming to UConn, she headed a center on the study of aging at the University of West Virginia.

In addition to her academic interests, Nahemow was a folk dancer, Balkan singer, swimmer, ice skater and a volunteer and supporter of many humanitarian movements.

She is survived by daughters Katherine and Barbara.

A service of remembrance will be held Wednesday, Jan. 31, at 4 p.m. at Hillel on North Eagleville Road in Storrs. The School of Family Studies and Nahemow's family will memorialize her contributions as a friend and community builder by dedicating a conversation corner in a coffee shop to be built in the School. Contributions may be sent to: The UConn Foundation, 2390 Alumni Drive, U-3206, Storrs, CT 06269. Please include "Lucille Nahemow Fund" on the memo line of your contribution.

Sherry Fisher