Dr. Claudia Hampton

Dr. Claudia H. Hampton died Aug. 13 in Los Angeles. She had served as a trustee of the California State University for 20 years.

I had the privilege of working with Dr. Hampton when I was general counsel of the CSU, and she was in her first term as a trustee. We have remained friends ever since. She dedicated her life to serving the educational needs of the young people of California.

As a trustee, and as a two-term chair of the board, Dr. Hampton came to know the system personally. She refused to rely on reports at monthly meetings. Instead, she got out to the campuses, not occasionally but often. She came to be known and respected by literally thousands of students, faculty and administrators throughout the state, as well as by several generations of colleagues on the board.

Dr. Hampton was initially appointed by Gov. Ronald Reagan. She was reappointed by Govs. Jerry Brown, George Deukmejian and Pete Wilson. She was a credit to all of them. This consistent and unbroken record of recognition for her ability is unique in California. I will miss her friendship, and higher education will miss her dedication, her ability to forge consensus and her grace.

NORMAN L. EPSTEIN

Associate Justice, Court of Appeal

Los Angeles