We sadly mourn the passing of Mychel J. Namphy. Dr. Namphy was a professor of English and African American studies, a high school teacher, a mentor and a friend. He loved music, teaching, running, and had a profound impact on all who were fortunate to know him. Students would camp out in the hallway outside his office to attend his office hours. Outside of teaching, he was a caring and generous member of his community. He brought babies from abused situations into his own house while they awaited foster placements by the state. He helped others train to run marathons. He will be greatly missed. 

From the Dr. Mychel J. Namphy Legacy Fund:

For over 20 years, Dr. Mychel J. Namphy lectured, taught, and wrote about African American literature, culture, and politics, in such diverse venues as churches and mosques, police academies and drug treatment centers, Ivy League colleges, graduate schools, high schools, elementary schools and prisons.
Dr. Namphy held teaching positions at Princeton University and at Rutgers University. At York College of the City University of New York, he was a professor of English, African American, and Native American literature, art, and music, and constantly encouraged his students to explore the connections between our cultural practices and our struggle for freedom, justice, equality, and dignity. During his tenure at York College, he brought countless educational programs and prominent guest speakers that enhanced the student learning experience.
Dr. Namphy passed away on May 23, 2019. He was an exemplary role model, scholar, and teacher who made innovative contributions to his field through his multimedia approach to teaching literature. He leaves behind an incredible legacy of students who are committed to the struggle and contributing to the lives of others as he did.