David Gerlach IL Death :It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of David Gerlach, the final president of Lincoln College, who tragically passed away overnight at the age of 62. Dave suffered a heart attack, and though he fought hard, he could not overcome the challenges that lay ahead. His loss leaves a deep void in the hearts of those who knew him, and the news has left us all in mourning.
For many, Dave Gerlach was a figure who often sparked strong opinions. His tenure at Lincoln College was marked by difficult decisions and immense challenges, culminating in the closure of the institution. His leadership in those final years of Lincoln College was controversial, and understandably so, given the circumstances. Yet, for all the difficulty and tension surrounding Lincoln’s closure, it is important to understand that Dave stepped into a situation that was already deeply compromised. The financial situation of the college was in severe distress, and the private college model that had once served it well was at an end stage of failure. Dave did not cause this; he inherited it. The truth of the matter lies in the college’s financial statements and audits, which paint a picture of deep and systemic issues that were beyond the ability of any one person to solve.
In his time at Lincoln College, Dave was presented with a nearly impossible challenge: to try and revive an institution that had already suffered from years of underinvestment, mismanagement, and neglect. He worked tirelessly, and his efforts, though ultimately insufficient in the face of such overwhelming adversity, cannot be dismissed. The failure of Lincoln College was not due to a lack of passion or commitment from Dave, but to a fundamental reality that no amount of leadership could reverse the damage already done. It was a heartbreaking end to a long and storied history.
Despite the difficult circumstances that marked his professional life, I had the privilege of knowing Dave on a more personal level. Over time, we became close friends. I can say with certainty that Dave was one of the most supportive individuals I have ever known. He was constantly offering ideas, guidance, and encouragement. I will forever cherish the texts he would send me, full of ideas and thoughts that reflected his boundless creativity and passion. I will miss those exchanges dearly. Dave believed in the power of connection and collaboration. He loved the radio and TV programs at Lincoln College, and his enthusiasm for them was contagious.
One of my fondest memories of Dave is from my doctoral dissertation defense. He was the only spectator in the room, a testament to his unwavering support of me and my academic journey. It was a small, but meaningful gesture that encapsulated Dave’s commitment to those he cared about. He was always present, always willing to lend his support. It was not just in grand gestures but in everyday actions that Dave made an impact on the lives of those around him.
Our friendship was not without its ups and downs. We had many debates, disagreements, and moments of frustration, but that was part of what made Dave so special. He loved a good argument, and he was always willing to engage in fierce discussions, no matter how heated they became. For Dave, it was never about ego or pride; it was about finding the truth, seeking solutions, and making things better. Those passionate debates were an essential part of who he was. He had no fear of speaking his mind, and that made him a person worth engaging with. We didn’t always see eye to eye, but we always respected each other, and I learned so much from those exchanges.
Beyond his professional and intellectual pursuits, Dave was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. His love for Lisa, his children, and his grandchildren was evident to anyone who knew him. My heart goes out to them in this difficult time. Dave’s family was his rock, and he was incredibly proud of them. I know they will miss him deeply, as will the rest of us.
One of the lasting legacies of Dave’s time at Lincoln College was his role in establishing and fostering academic excellence. A prime example of this is the Meritorious Scholarship Award, which he created to recognize outstanding students. In 2020, I had the honor of standing alongside Dave and Nik Jackson, that year’s recipient of the award. It was one of the many moments when Dave’s vision for the college and his commitment to its students were evident. In 2022, Zaknafein Luken became the recipient of the same award, further cementing Dave’s influence and the legacy he left behind at Lincoln College. Dave was always looking for ways to make things better, to reward excellence, and to give back to the community that had been so important to him.
As I reflect on Dave’s life and legacy, I am reminded of the words of Winston Churchill: “To each, there comes in their lifetime a special moment when they are figuratively tapped on the shoulder and offered the chance to do a very special thing, unique to them and fit for their talents.” For Dave, that moment came when he was called to lead Lincoln College in its final years. He rose to the occasion, giving everything he had to the task. While the outcome may not have been what he or any of us had hoped for, his dedication and hard work are not to be forgotten.
In the end, Dave was more than just a leader at Lincoln College. He was a friend, a mentor, and a passionate advocate for education and the people around him. His impact on the lives of those who knew him, both personally and professionally, will be felt for years to come. He may have been a polarizing figure in some ways, but for those who knew him best, he was a person of great heart, conviction, and integrity.
My heart aches for his family, and I send my deepest condolences to Lisa, his children, and grandchildren. We have lost a great man, and the world is a little less bright without him. Dave, I will miss you more than words can say. Rest in peace, my friend.
