Laura Nuzzi O'Shaughnessy P'92

Dear Laurentian Community,

I write to share the sad news that Professor Emerita of Government Laura Nuzzi O'Shaughnessy P’92 died on July 23 at the age of 80.

Laura joined St. Lawrence’s Department of Government in 1978 and devoted three decades to teaching, scholarship, and academic leadership before retiring in 2008. A graduate of Queens College of the City University of New York, she earned both her bachelor’s degree and her master’s and doctoral degrees in political science from Indiana University.

A respected scholar of religion and politics, conflict resolution, and Central American politics, Laura co-authored two influential books, The Church and Revolution in Nicaragua and Nicaragua’s Other Revolution: Religious Faith and Political Struggle, the latter recognized as a Choice Outstanding Academic Book. In 1992, she was named a Dana Professor of Government in recognition of her outstanding teaching and scholarship. Throughout her career, she also served the University in numerous leadership roles, including Piskor Lecturer, Director of International Education, Coordinator of Caribbean and Latin American Studies, and Associate Dean of the Faculty.

Following her retirement, Laura pursued another calling. She earned a Master of Divinity degree from Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School and was ordained as a minister, continuing a lifelong commitment to learning, service, and helping others. She remained active in her church and community while embracing many personal passions, including music, hiking, languages, and interfaith work.

Laura is survived by her daughters, Nancy O’Shaughnessy Smith ’92 and Ellen Clelia O’Shaughnessy; her four grandchildren; her brothers, David Nuzzi and Peter Nuzzi; and many extended family members and friends. She was predeceased by her husband of 34 years, Thomas O’Shaughnessy.

Laura will be remembered for her contributions as a teacher, scholar, academic leader, and minister, and for the many lives she touched throughout her career. We extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, former students, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Please join us in honoring Laura’s life by sharing your memories of her on the St. Lawrence University website. You can read the remembrances of others here.

Sincerely,

Kate Morris