Miami University Faculty Alliance remembers professor, negotiator

Phil Alexander, a Miami University professor, co-director of varsity esports and former bargaining council chair died early Monday morning, according to a post from the Faculty Alliance of Miami (FAM).

A resident of Richmond, Indiana, Alexander was the first chair of FAM’s bargaining council.

According to his website, Alexander was also an author and consultant. His research focused on “identity, collaboration and cultural identity through an indigenous theory lens.” Alexander identified as a “mixed-blood Cherokee scholar” and “a professor, writer, gamer and dog owner.”

Alexander taught at Miami for more than 12 years.

Alexander’s wife Julie is also a Miami professor. She teaches the First-Year Integrated Core (FYIC) in the Farmer School of Business. Julie was also an active member of FAM, serving as the organization's communications director.

Cathy Wagner, FAM contract team co-chair and English professor, said he greatly impacted multiple organizations within the university.

“He was really involved in the development of ETBD,” Wagner said. “He was also key to the development of the games major and was the only person who worked on the esports major. He was incredibly important to the university and College of Arts and Sciences.”

Ryan Fisher, dean of the College of Creative Arts, sent out an email to CCA students, sharing the news of Alexander’s death and announcing a celebration to honor Alexander's life will be planned for the spring. To honor his memory, he wrote that a scholarship fund was created for anyone to make donations to.

“Phill's enthusiasm and leadership extended far beyond academics,” Fisher wrote in the email. “His efforts positioned Miami as a national powerhouse in esports, earning championships, widespread recognition and the admiration of countless students and colleagues. Phill's presence and contributions will be profoundly missed throughout CCA and the broader Miami community.”

reieram@miamioh.edu