Anne Dhu McLucas, the inaugural chair of Boston College’s music department, was a victim in a double homicide near Eugene, Ore. on Sept. 7. McLucas, formerly Shapiro, was 71 at the time of her death.
McLucas was slain along with her domestic partner, James Gillette. Gillette’s son was arrested and was arraigned on two counts of aggravated murder on Sept. 10. McLucas had been serving as the dean of the University of Oregon School of Music and Dance for 10 years, and was to retire from teaching in December.
McLucas joined BC in 1987 as an adjunct associate professor, later becoming an associate professor and chair when the music program was elevated to full departmental status in 1988.
During her tenure at BC, the music department developed its commitment, became a full major program, and sponsored an annual Irish music festival.
As dean at the University of Oregon, McLucas helped secure state funding for a $19.2 million building renovation. She served a term as a Fulbright Distinguished Scholar at the University of Edinburgh.
McLucas earned degrees from the University of Colorado and Harvard University. She is survived by her sister, Caye Dhu Geer, and her son, Jacob Shapiro.
