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MCC Daily Tribune

Professor Emeritus Thomas Wells, Geosciences

I am saddened to inform you that Professor Emeritus of Geosciences Thomas Wells passed away on August 1, 2020 at the of age 80. Professor Emeritus Wells was predeceased by his daughter, Kristen. He is survived by his wife, Becky; his daughter Kim (Bill Years), Kevin (Martha) Grievson and Kurt (Toni) Grievson; six grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

He earned his master's degree from the University of Houston and his bachelor's degree from SUNY Plattsburgh.

He joined MCC in 1968 as an assistant professor of science in the Physical Sciences Department where he taught geology and helped develop courses in environmental studies. He was known for his witty and inspiring presentations on the Grand Canyon and the Great Lakes and his "Dinosaurs to Poverty" series. In 1984, he coordinated Greater Rochester's Mathematics, Science and Technology Consortium.

Teaching and learning were Professor Emeritus Wells' passions. He earned the rank of professor of geosciences in 1979. He retired in 1995 at which time the MCC Board of Trustees bestowed upon him the rank of professor emeritus.

He was a member of the American Meteorological Society, National Audubon Society, and the International Association for Great Lakes Research. He also enjoyed his role as a local TV meteorologist.

According to his obituary, his favorite charities were Golisano Children's Hospital and the Alzheimer's Association. He will be dearly missed.

Katherine Douglas
Office of the President
08/14/2020