Gary C. Hourihan ’70

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Gary died Feb. 3, 2022, among his family in Pasadena, Calif., following a harrowing battle with lymphoma. He was one of our outstanding management-policy professionals.

He came to us from Detroit Country Day School, where he shone in virtually everything academic and athletic. One of the Edwards Hall stalwarts, he belonged to Charter and wrote his history thesis on “The Artist As Revolutionary.” 

Gary went on to earn an MBA at Chicago and a license in applied economics from the University of Louvain. He then built a stellar career in executive compensation and leadership studies with firms such as Booz Allen, Korn Ferry, and his own shop. He spoke frequently at a broad range of business schools as well as conducting his management practice. This was useful cover for Gary’s coaching stints in soccer, basketball, and baseball for his sons’ teams, and his rise to ultimate power as the president of the San Marino Little League. As an empty-nester, his passion for fast cars and travel even resulted in two holes in one — in Hawaii.

Gary is survived by his wife of 47 years, Debbie; their sons Kevin and Ryan; and their families, including four grandchildren. His wisdom regarding leadership, generously practiced  in his own life, is deeply inspiring, which we will all recall and strive to match. 

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