Dunedin, South Island – Dr. Damian Scarf, an esteemed Associate Professor at the University of Otago, tragically passed away on December 23, 2024.
His death has deeply affected the academic and psychological communities both in New Zealand and internationally.
Dr. Scarf was known for his groundbreaking work on social identity, youth mental health, alcohol consumption, and anti-racism.
His research and advocacy efforts were crucial in highlighting the impacts of racism on society, particularly in academic and professional settings.
He was a passionate social psychologist who devoted his career to understanding and addressing social justice issues, with a particular focus on marginalized groups.
Dr. Scarf’s contributions to the Working to End Racial Oppression (WERO) research program were especially notable, as was his involvement in the MBIE-funded initiative to combat institutional racism in psychology.
He also played a key role in the A Mirror on Society project, which sought to increase the representation of minoritized groups in health professional programs.
Beyond his academic achievements, Dr. Scarf was highly regarded for his mentorship and personal connection with students, guiding them through their careers and inspiring future generations of psychologists.
“Damian was not only a brilliant academic but also a kind, supportive mentor,” said one of his former students. “His loss is truly heartbreaking.”
His passing leaves an irreplaceable void in the academic community.
Dr. Scarf’s legacy of social justice, compassion, and scholarly excellence will continue to inspire his colleagues, students, and all who knew him.