Obituaries

Dr. Damian Scarf, Dunedin, South Island

Dunedin, South Island – Dr. Damian Scarf, an esteemed Associate Professor at the University of Otago, tragically passed away on December 23, 2024.

His untimely death has left a profound impact on the field of psychology and the many lives he touched as a mentor, educator, and advocate for social justice.

Dr. Scarf was widely recognized for his expertise in social psychology, with a focus on social identity, belonging, youth mental health, alcohol consumption, and anti-racism.

In 2019, he was awarded the prestigious Rutherford Discovery Fellowship for his work on The Belonging Project, a testament to his dedication to understanding the importance of social belonging in human lives.

Dr. Scarf also contributed to the Working to End Racial Oppression (WERO) research programme, which aimed to combat systemic racism in psychology training and workplaces.

His work was deeply influenced by Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles, ensuring that his research promoted inclusivity and a better understanding of Aotearoa New Zealand’s unique cultural landscape.

He is remembered fondly by his students and colleagues, many of whom have expressed their sorrow on social media.

The New Zealand Psychological Society shared their condolences, stating, “Dr. Scarf’s legacy in the field of psychology will live on, and his dedication to equity and social justice has inspired us all.”

Dr. Damian Scarf’s passing is a great loss to the academic community, but his contributions to psychology and his unwavering commitment to social justice will continue to inspire generations to come.

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