Nancy Worsham, Ph.D.
Professor Emerita of Psychology
Years of Service: 1992–2024
Dr. Nancy Worsham joined the Gonzaga University faculty in 1992, dedicating 32 years of distinguished service to the Department of Psychology. A specialist in clinical psychology with a Ph.D. from the University of Vermont, Dr. Worsham’s career was defined by her deep commitment to understanding resilience and the "power of stillness." Her scholarly work focused extensively on how children and families navigate stress—ranging from coping with parental illness to her impactful research on foster care programs and attachment. She also contributed to research exploring the physical and psychological benefits of companion animals. A pioneer in contemplative pedagogy, she was instrumental in integrating mindfulness into the curriculum, most notably through her course Mindfulness and Psychotherapy. Dr. Worsham is remembered by colleagues and students alike for her compassionate mentorship and her belief in the capacity of the next generation to lead with both scientific rigor and heart.
Sam Leigland, Ph.D.
Associate Professor Emeritus of Psychology
Years of Service: 1982–2021
In Memoriam
Dr. Sam Leigland joined the Gonzaga faculty in 1982, serving the Department of Psychology for 39 years. A leading voice in the philosophy of behaviorism, Dr. Leigland earned his Ph.D. from the University of New Mexico and dedicated his career to the experimental and functional analysis of behavior. His research was internationally recognized for its focus on radical behaviorism and the work of B.F. Skinner, specifically regarding the complex relationship between language, "mental life," and observable action. At Gonzaga, he was a pillar of the department’s scientific curriculum, teaching core courses in Learning, History and Systems of Psychology, and Advanced Research Methods. He is remembered as a rigorous scholar and a mentor who challenged students to examine the philosophical foundations of psychological science with precision and critical curiosity.
Michael McBride, Ph.D.
Associate Professor Emeritus of Psychology
Years of Service: 1978–2019
Dr. Michael McBride joined the Gonzaga University faculty in 1978, serving the Department of Psychology for 41 years before his retirement in 2019. Often noted for his deep commitment to the "vocation of teaching," Dr. McBride taught social, environmental, industrial and general psychology and chaired the department over several terms. He was a cornerstone of the department's undergraduate mentorship, known for a teaching philosophy that moved beyond rote memorization to foster critical thinking and personal growth in his students. His scholarly interests frequently explored the psychological dimensions of the human experience, and he was a vocal advocate for the liberal arts tradition within the sciences. Beyond the classroom, Dr. McBride was recognized by the College of Arts & Sciences for his long-standing dedication to student success and his role in shaping the department's collaborative culture.