The following is the December 7, 2023, message from Gene Anderson, Henry E. Haller Jr. Dean, to the Pitt Business community:
I’m deeply saddened to inform you of the tragic passing of Dr. Cha Jan “Jerry” Chang, PhD, who was unfortunately a victim in the shooting incident that occurred on the University of Nevada Las Vegas campus on December 6th. Dr. Chang was a valued member of our Pitt Business community from 1993 to 2001, where he not only taught our students but also earned two degrees. His subsequent 20+ years at UNLV further attest to his dedication and contributions to academia.
Dr. Chang embarked on his journey with us as a graduate student in 1993, during which time he served as a part-time instructor and graduate research assistant at the Katz Graduate School of Business. His commitment to his studies saw him earn his Master of Science degree in Management Information Systems in 1995, followed by his PhD in MIS in 2001. Upon leaving Pittsburgh, he joined UNLV as an Assistant Professor of MIS, eventually rising to the rank of Associate Professor.
In his professional capacity, Dr. Chang was highly regarded by his students and was known for his extensive and award-winning research in information systems measurement, software piracy, the use and impact of IT, human-computer interaction, and strategic planning. On a personal level, his colleagues at Pitt remember him as a gentle and caring individual who was consistently kind and supportive, both as a student and an instructor.
My heart breaks for Dr. Chang’s colleagues, both past and present, as well as his family during this difficult time. As we navigate through this period of grief and sadness, let us remember and honor Dr. Chang’s caring nature and kindness, and let it inspire us to continue building and strengthening our community together.
