The Galveston College community is mourning the Jan. 13 passing of Dr. John Pickelman, 75, fourth president of Galveston College.
Dr. Pickelman served as president of Galveston College from 1983 to 1991. He followed third president Dr. Jack Stone and preceded Dr. Marc Nigliazzo, who served as vice president of instruction under Dr. Pickelman.
Under Dr. Pickelman’s leadership, the college completed Regents Hall in 1990 with a library, atrium, nursing faculty offices, science labs and classrooms. The following year, the college renovated the original Moody Hall with a lecture hall, counseling center, bookstore, admissions and financial aid offices. The first floor of Moody Hall has since been remodeled.
In addition to his contributions to the college, Dr. Pickelman was a tireless supporter of the Galveston community. He inspired the Leadership Galveston program, which Galveston College coordinated in partnership with the Galveston Regional Chamber of Commerce from 1984 to 2017.
After leaving Galveston College, he became the chancellor of Lone Star College from 1991 to 2007, and he was widely credited as being the most instrumental in developing the concept of comprehensive multi-campus systems across the service area. During his tenure, LSC grew from about 20,000 students to more than 75,000 students.
“We extend our sincerest condolences to his family and to those who knew him and respected him,” said Dr. Myles Shelton, Galveston College president.
A private service is scheduled. Memories may be shared at the following link: