Tom Ulen, research professor and Swanlund Chair Emeritus at the University of Illinois College of Law, passed away on September 13, 2026. He was 79.
A towering scholarly figure, Tom joined the University in the late 1970s, beginning an association with Illinois that would span nearly half a century. He held the Swanlund Chair, one of the University’s highest endowed faculty honors, and directed the College’s Program in Law and Economics. A prolific and internationally influential scholar, he helped shape modern law and economics. His co-authored textbook, Law and Economics, became a leading work in the discipline and was translated into numerous languages. He served on the founding board of directors of the American Law and Economics Association, taught and lectured around the world, and received an honorary doctorate from KU Leuven in recognition of his scholarly contributions.
In a message to the College of Law community, Dean Jamelle Sharpe shared the following sentiments:
“For all that Tom accomplished over his remarkable career, what I—and, I know, so many others—will remember most is his humor, kindness, and humanity. A beloved colleague for decades, he brought unmistakable warmth and good humor to the College, along with a genuine interest in others and boundless generosity of spirit and intellect. That generosity endured long after his retirement. Tom remained engaged with the College’s intellectual and personal life, sharing ideas, encouragement, laughter, and friendship with so many of us. His presence was a blessing to this community, and I know that many colleagues, former students, and friends around the world will feel his loss deeply.”
Memorial services will be held in Champaign in the coming weeks. Read the full obituary at legacy.com.