Tufts Professor Sam Sommers Passes Away, Leaving Legacy in Psychology

MEDFORD, Mass. — Sam Sommers, renowned chair of the psychology department at Tufts University, passed away on March 16, 2025, at the age of 49 due to complications from neurosurgery. A member of Tufts faculty since 2003, Sommers was respected for his contributions to understanding the psychological causes and consequences of racism.

Throughout his career, Sommers rose from assistant professor to full professor and department chair, significantly influencing both his students and colleagues. Bárbara Brizuela, dean of the School of Arts and Sciences, expressed her sorrow following his death. “This is a tragic loss, and it will take us all time to process the grief of losing such a pillar of our Tufts community,” she said.

Many in the psychology department described Sommers as kind and compassionate. “Sam was generous with his time, always thoughtful, exceedingly fair and principled,” said Heather Urry, a fellow psychology professor. “He was a fierce advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion.”

Lisa Shin, another colleague, shared how deeply impacted the faculty felt by his death. “Sam would have wanted us to forge ahead, fighting for what is right and showing kindness and respect to others,” she said.

A dedicated researcher, Sommers focused on various aspects of social psychology, including racial diversity and group dynamics. His work often examined the intersection of psychology and law, a passion that emerged early in his academic career. “What really interests me about the law is the human dynamic of what goes on in the courtroom,” Sommers once stated.

In his influential studies, such as those published in the Journal of Personality & Social Psychology, he highlighted how diverse juries led to more thorough discussions and affected trial outcomes positively. Sommers’s research on eyewitness testimony indicated the fallibility of memory, earning him recognition from the American Psychology-Law Society in 2008.

His research consistently tackled themes of racism and disparity. An article in Perspectives on Psychological Science revealed alarming perceptions among white Americans regarding racial discrimination. “It’s a pretty surprising finding when you think of the wide range of disparities that still exist in society,” he commented.

In response to societal issues, including the killing of George Floyd, Sommers participated in online discussions aimed at confronting racial biases. His recent work focused on the neurological impacts of anti-Black racism, emphasizing the significance of understanding its effects on mental and physical health.

Outside of academia, Sommers authored several textbooks and popular books, discussing everything from psychology to sports rivalries. His love for the New York Yankees and engagement in community activities, including coaching a softball team, demonstrated his zest for life.

Sommers is survived by his wife, Marilyn, and daughters Abby and Sophie, along with other family members and a community of friends, colleagues, and students grieving his loss. A private service will be held for his family and friends, with donations requested in his honor to the Innocence Project or the American Civil Liberties Union.