John Chemers – A Lifelong UCSC Alumnus

The United States Constitution prohibits discrimination on the basis of religion. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 imposes the duty to treat all people equal regardless of their religion.

Chemers claims that his termination was based on his refusal to be a Christian. However, the parties have presented contrasting versions of the events leading to the plaintiff’s discharge.

Early Life and Education

john chemers was born on November 14, 1949, in New York. He is the son of Martin M. Chemers and the late Janet Chemers. He grew up in a family that valued hard work, integrity, and service to others. He earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of California at Berkeley and a master’s degree in education from Harvard. He worked as a social science researcher and administrator for more than eight years before taking the role of UCSC’s acting chancellor. He listened to a wide range of constituencies and made decisions that he felt were in the best interest of the campus and its mission of teaching, research, and public service. During his tenure as chief executive officer, Chemers served more than eight years and led a staff of 70 full-time employees.

Professional Career

Chemers’ professional life was a mixed bag. He worked as a research associate in a lab at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where he helped develop a research program focused on diversity in science careers, but he also had a side gig in the real estate industry. He also volunteered his time on various committees at the local YMCA, where he served on the board of directors. He also participated in a few other community activities such as volunteering for a bike shop, and working on his high school’s basketball team.

Achievements and Honors

During his eight years as dean of the Division of Social Sciences, Chemers was a powerful champion of research and an influential force in supporting young scholars. He also was a strong advocate of diversity on campus, and helped boost the careers of many faculty members by creating small-grants programs.

He also made a lasting impact as acting chancellor of UC Santa Cruz, where he was able to balance the demands of his campus responsibilities with a passion for teaching and research. He guided campus decisions by listening to a diverse set of constituencies, including undergraduates, faculty, staff, politicians, alumni, parents, donors, and unions. He also encouraged a commitment to the common good, as he described it in his obituary. During his career, he has received many awards and honors.

Personal Life

john chemers is a proud father of three. He lives with his wife of 14 years in a large modern condo located in the West Koke Mill area of Springfield, Illinois. He also enjoys fishing, camping and skiing in the winter. He is a devoted family man with a keen sense of humor. Chemers is a graduate of the University of Michigan and holds a doctorate degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He is a member of the Rotary Club and has served as president of the Chicago chapter of the American Red Cross. He is a proud member of the Illinois Tech Alumni Association and has served as vice president of the College of Science and Mathematics.