Michael Greene and Boston schoolchildren as pictured on the cover of the Fall 1991 issue of Wentworth Alumni News magazine

Dr. Michael Greene was more than a Wentworth professor. He played a key role in building lasting relationships with neighbors in Mission Hill and beyond, helping to lay the foundation for youth-focused community programs that thrive today.

“Mike Greene was an extraordinary man, an amazing teacher and an inspiration to all of us committed to service, especially for the youth of Boston,” says Sandy Pascal, Wentworth’s associate vice president for community relations and external affairs.

Pascal and Greene worked closely together for a number of years, forging friendships with campus neighbors and housing community leaders, and working with others at Wentworth to create community programs that would ultimately form the Center for Community and Learning Partnerships (CLP).

Greene took the lead in establishing Camp Tech, Technology Goes Home, and Youth@Art Tech, among other initiatives. As a founding member of the Faculty Service-Learning Committee, his work helped launch Wentworth’s first Dual Enrollment classes, which laid the foundation for CLP programs today.

“Mike was a leading force in executing many programs for our neighborhoods,” says Pascal. “He made a difference in so many ways.”

Known for his humor, wit and compassion, Greene believed strongly in equal rights. From marching in Selma, Ala. in 1965 to engaging in conversations around ethics and politics in recent years, his convictions were always well known.

At Wentworth, Greene taught English, Ethics and Film, among other subjects. He loved reading and wrote poetry and several books. He had a passion for music—playing and listening to it—as well as photography, gardening and traveling.

Michael Greene died peacefully at his home January 24 while surrounded by family. He was 77.

Gifts in his memory may be made to support RAMP, Wentworth’s precollege bridge program for Boston residents who are enrolling at the university. Visit wit.edu/supportWIT.

–Greg Abazorius