Stephen Greene Spencer

Dr. Stephen Greene Spencer, aged 59, of Lebanon, Ohio, passed away peacefully at his home on Monday, April 7, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on June 3, 1965.

Dr. Spencer served as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Shepherd University from 2022 to 2023. He joined Shepherd on June 1, 2022, describing it as his “dream job.” Though his tenure was brief, his impact on its academic community was profound. He brought a wealth of experience, a student-centered vision and a deep appreciation for the transformative power of higher education. His leadership, even while navigating the challenges of ALS, inspired all who worked alongside him. The title, “Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs and Professor of English, Emeritus,” was conferred upon Dr. Spencer at the April 20, 2023, Board of Governors meeting in recognition of his lasting contributions.

Dr. Spencer candidly shared his diagnosis with the university community and continued serving the institution with grace and dedication, working remotely until he stepped away on catastrophic leave. During his time with the university, he introduced innovative academic initiatives, contributed meaningfully to strategic planning efforts and fostered a spirit of collaboration among faculty and staff. He was also an active member of the Shepherdstown community and a proud member of the Rotary Club of Shepherdstown.

Dr. Spencer and his family relocated to Ohio to be closer to family, following his departure from Shepherd.

Dr. Spencer’s legacy at Shepherd will live on through the Spencer Family “Dream Job” Scholarship, which supports students who envision a career in their dream job, following graduation. Scholarship candidates are required to submit both an essay and a poem illustrating their dream job, reflecting Dr. Spencer’s love for literature and poetry — and his belief in the power of imagination.

He is survived by his wife, Kelly, and their two sons, Jackson and Camden.

To support the Spencer Family “Dream Job” Scholarship, visit the “Give Now to Shepherd University” webpage. Please select “Other” under designation and type “Spencer Family Scholarship,” to ensure donations are directed appropriately. Checks may also be made payable to the Shepherd University Foundation and mailed to P.O. Box 5000, Shepherdstown, WV 25443. Please write “Spencer Family Scholarship” in the memo line.

A memorial reception to honor Stephen’s life will be held on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 2-4 PM at the Oswald-Hoskins Funeral Home in Lebanon.