William Rosen, a lecturer in the College of Human Ecology's Department of Policy Analysis and Management, died of brain cancer May 19 at his home in Brooktondale, N.Y. He was 57 years old.

"Bill was a beloved teacher and mentor to hundreds of students throughout his almost two decades of teaching economics and statistics in the College of Human Ecology at Cornell," said Rosemary Avery, chair of his department. "He inspired students to become creative problem solvers by illuminating the role that economics and statistics can play in addressing the complex issues facing society."

Rosen served as director of the Capitol Semester in Albany program; the New York State Assembly passed a resolution in 2005 honoring him for his contributions as a respected member of the Albany political community.

He also was a recipient of such prestigious awards as the New York State Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching (2006), Merrill Presidential Scholar Outstanding Educator (2004, 2005) and HEAA/KON Honorary Society Award for Advising and Service (2001).

Rosen received his bachelor's degree in economics from Boston University and Ph.D. from the University of California-Davis.

He is survived by his father, Saul Rosen, sisters Joanne and Barbara Rosen, and his beloved golden retriever, Ben.