Community Mourns Loss of Psychology Professor Steve Rouse

February 19, 2026 - 07:12

The Pepperdine University community is united in grief following the passing of esteemed Psychology Professor Steve Rouse, who died on February 5th. Professor Rouse dedicated nearly three decades to the university, leaving an indelible mark on generations of students and colleagues.

Widely remembered for his profound warmth and innate kindness, Rouse’s classroom was a place of both intellectual rigor and heartfelt encouragement. He was celebrated not just as an educator, but as a dedicated mentor and a steadfast advocate for his students. His guidance extended far beyond academic instruction, shaping the personal and professional paths of countless individuals.

The loss resonates deeply across campus, felt by faculty who valued him as a peer, by students past and present who cherished his support, and by friends and family who knew his generous spirit. Professor Rouse’s legacy is one of unwavering compassion and a deep commitment to fostering growth in others. His absence creates a profound void within the community he served with such distinction for thirty years.