Randy Pausch: A Life Well Lived

July 25, 2008 – 11:26 am

Randy Pausch, the computer science professor whose “Last Lecture” has inspired millions, died early this morning at his home in Virginia.  Since we don’t normally write about sad stories here on MajorityMag, we want to use this post to celebrate Pausch’s life and the impact he made on millions (we’re pretty sure that’s what he would want too).

Above is Pausch’s “last lecture”, a heart-felt message entitled “Really Living Your Childhood Dreams”, which he gave on September 18, 2007, shortly after being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and being told he had only a few months to live. The lecture, and subsequent book, have reached millions of people and inspired us all to live a meaningful life.

Even before this lecture made him famous Pausch was highly regarded for his achievements in the field of Computer Science. He created an innovative educational software called “Alice” and co-founded Carnegie Mellon’s Entertainment Technology Center. Among students and collegues he was admired for his passion, humor, and caring heart, and most importantly Pausch was a loving husband and dedicated father of three. Congratulations Dr. Pausch, on a life well-lived.

Quick Reminder: Pausch’s book The Last Lecture is our August book for the Summer Reading Series. Please consider joining us in reading and discussing it together on this site.

-JH