James “Jim” Gregg, a dedicated leader in the Department of Political Science and Journalism for 35 years, passed away on November 1. He was 97 years old.
Born May 3, 1927, Gregg completed his doctorate in political science at University of California, Berkeley in 1964.
He joined Chico State in 1959 and spent more than 30 years as a professor of political science and journalism. His leadership roles included department chair, graduate dean, director of research, and associate vice president.
Gregg’s expertise in media and politics earned him renown, influencing discussions on newspaper bias, editorial endorsements, and journalism education. His prolific writings spanned academic journals, monographs, and popular media, bridging scholarship and public engagement. In 1965–66, a prestigious Ford Foundation grant enabled him to serve as staff secretary of education for Governor Edmund “Pat” Brown.
Students and colleagues remember Gregg’s warmth, curiosity, and unwavering dedication. “Jim was the kind of professor who went out of his way to support students and enrich our understanding of the world,” shared Eileen Morris, a political science lecturer.
Gregg’s passion for education extended globally, with sabbaticals in British Columbia and New Zealand, where he inspired international learners. Even after retirement in 1994, he returned to teaching and championed civic causes through leadership in the Butte Environmental Council and the League of Women Voters—serving alongside his wife and partner, Lyla.
Jim and Lyla met in 1952 while teaching at Shasta High School in Redding and were married in 1955 in British Columbia, Canada. Always deeply devoted to one another, the iconic Chico couple, known for riding a tandem bike together, celebrated their 65th anniversary in 2020.
As a teenager, he became interested in photography. He carried this passion with him while serving as a photographer with the Navy during the later part of World War II. He maintained a love for the outdoors and photography throughout his life, and further explored this through piloting a glider.
Gregg’s monumental photograph titled “Lenticular Clouds Over Mt. Shasta” sold more than 5,000 images as cards, posters, and prints.
From mentoring students to shaping policy and championing public education, Professor Gregg’s life exemplified service, curiosity, and compassion. His legacy will continue to inspire and uplift for generations to come.
“I joined the faculty at Chico State in 2000 and even though he had been retired for several years at that point, Jim was still very much a part of the life of the department,” said Charles Turner, professor in the Political Science Department. “He was very generous with his time and even came back to teach a section of state and local government one year.”
Gregg is survived by his wife, Lyla; their children, William, Richard, Joan, Michael and Robert; and their six grandchildren.
The University flag will be lowered Thursday, February 6, in his honor.
Founded in 1887, California State University, Chico is the second-oldest CSU campus and one of the highest-ranked master’s-level public universities in the West.
