It is with deep sorrow that we have learned of the death of Douglas Long, Director of the First-Year Program. Doug passed away on August 26, 2025 after battling Leukemia. He was 62.
Doug earned his Master of Fine Arts degree from Indiana University, where he then served as Director of Audience Development before joining DePaul in 2000 as an instructor in the College of Communication. He then became director of the First-Year Program in 2009. The program is recognized as one of the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, a reflection of Doug’s leadership and vision. His work helped shape the experience of thousands of students and supported a great many faculty and staff across the university.
Doug’s passion for movies and their production was widely known. He was always ready for deep conversations about filmmaking and movie trivia with friends and colleagues. He also had a deep love for theatre and stage performance, for which he was a director. His love of family and faith gave him the support and courage to face the challenges of his illness with strength and spirit.
Most of all, Doug was known for his kindness and caring nature, his sense of humor, and his collaborative spirit that kept the First-Year Program thriving and exciting for first-year students. He consistently built dedicated teams of faculty and staff who valued his leadership and collegiality and motivated all to make DePaul’s first-year experience one of excellence. In his own words, “One benefit of working in the First-Year Program is interacting with other people who value education and the opportunity to make the beginning of the college experience as successful as possible.” He will be deeply missed and remembered by many.
Doug is survived by his wife, Kay, children Adam and Sarah, his parents, and three brothers. Visitation will take place on Saturday, August 30, 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. at Adams-Winterfield & Sullivan Funeral Home, 4343 Main Street, Downers Grove, IL. A “Words of Remembrance” service will start at 2:00 p.m. A larger Celebration of Life service will be held at a later date. Online condolences may be submitted at Adams-Winterfield & Sullivan – Doug Long Obituary and Tribute
A university remembrance service will be held on Thursday, September 25, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. in Cortelyou Commons. RSVP HERE through DeHub
Doug was my colleague at Indiana University from 1985-1988. I can safely say that he changed my life for the better. He brought everyone together in the quietest of ways—offered advice in the kindest of ways. He was a small presence with a huge spirit. He directed one of my plays for our black-box theatre, and it was a memorable and meaningful experience for me and the actors. I stayed in touch with Doug over the years, on social media, and his presence there was the same—bringing people together, talking about film and music, reminding people of our shared colleagues. I lost touch with him over the last year and was shocked to hear of his illness and his death. I send my deepest condolences to all who shared his life and loves.
Beautiful to hear of your warm and fond memories of Doug and all he shared with you and the people in his life.