Edward Leroy McCord Ph.D., J.D.

Edward Leroy McCord, a polymathic scholar, naturalist, and beloved mentor who bridged the worlds of philosophy, law, and conservation, has passed away. A man of immense intellectual breadth, Dr. McCord spent decades at the University of Pittsburgh, where he served as a Senior Lecturer and the Director of Programming for the University Honors College.

Born in Tallahassee, Florida, Ed’s lifelong fascination with the natural world began in the ecosystems of North Florida, where he developed a particular appreciation for the area’s carnivorous plants. He graduated from Leon High School before attending Princeton University, where he earned his A.B. in Philosophy in 1972. His academic journey continued at the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned an M.A. in Cultural Anthropology, a Ph.D. in Philosophy, and a J.D.. This rare combination of disciplines allowed him to approach environmental conservation not just as a scientific necessity, but as a moral and legal imperative.

Dr. McCord’s capstone achievement was his 2012 book, The Value of Species (Yale University Press), which argued that every species possesses an inherent intellectual and moral value that transcends market utility. His work was recognized as an "Outstanding Academic Title" for Biology by Choice magazine.

At the University of Pittsburgh, Ed was instrumental in helping Honors College Dean Alec Stewart in the landmark acquisition of the 4,700-acre Allen L. Cook Spring Creek Preserve in Wyoming. This "living laboratory" became a cornerstone of his teaching, where he led students through the Wyoming Yellowstone Field Studies Program to study dinosaur fossil beds and environmental law. His commitment to student growth led to the establishment of the Ed McCord Experiential Learning Fund, ensuring his legacy of field-based discovery continues.

Beyond the classroom, Ed was a man of adventurous spirit. His hobbies ranged from the contemplative—tending to his cats and growing rare orchids and carnivorous plants—to the daring, including climbing Borneo’s Mount Kinabalu, diving for relics in Florida rivers, and a memorable 12,000-foot skydive with the Pitt Outdoors Club. He was an avid traveler, exploring the terrain and cultural heritage of Mongolia, Malaysia, and South Africa.

Ed often reflected on the "Princetonian hallmarks of enlightenment, authenticity, and service" that guided his life. He is survived by his sister Betsy (Jack) Kelly; his brother Guyte (Beverly) McCord; and many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He leaves behind a legacy of "widening and sharpening thought" for generations of students.

For those wishing to give in memory of Ed’s lifelong commitment to student discovery, the family suggests donations to The Ed McCord Experiential Learning Fund. This fund supports undergraduate research and field study at the Cook Spring Creek Preserve in Wyoming.

Online Link: https://pitt.gift/mccord