The Butler University community is deeply mourning the loss of Dr. Victor Puleo, a cherished professor and a leading figure in the field of Risk Management and Insurance. Dr. Puleo passed away on January 3, 2025, at the age of 60, following a prolonged battle with cancer. His passing has left a significant void at Butler University, where he made a profound impact on both the institution and his students.
A Distinguished Career in Academia and Industry
Early Career and Academic Contributions
Dr. Victor Puleo’s extensive career in academia and the insurance industry is marked by his dedication and passion for teaching. He began his tenure at Butler University in 2018, where he was appointed as the Davey Chair of Risk Management and Insurance. This role allowed him to shape the future of the department and influence countless students. Puleo also served as the Academic Director for the Masters of Science in Risk & Insurance program from the same year and chaired the Risk Management & Insurance department from 2020 to 2022.
During his time at Butler University, Dr. Puleo made substantial contributions to the academic community. His commitment to advancing the field of Risk Management and Insurance was undeniable. Beyond his roles within the university, he published numerous research papers and articles concerning insurance policies, risk analysis, and employee benefits. His academic work bridged the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, earning him respect from both his peers and students. His courses were known for their rigor and relevance, preparing students for the complexities of the insurance industry.
Roles Beyond Butler University
Puleo’s influence extended beyond Butler University. He held professorial roles at the University of Central Arkansas, College of Charleston, and Appalachian State University. His credentials as a Certified Insurance Counselor and Certified Financial Planner reflected his deep expertise and commitment to his field. His contributions to the academic community and the insurance industry were widely recognized and respected.
In addition to his teaching roles, Dr. Puleo was active in various professional organizations and industry conferences, where he frequently presented his research findings. His balanced approach, combining industry experience with academic insights, made him a valuable contributor to numerous panels and forums. Outside of his academic roles, Dr. Puleo consulted with several insurance firms, providing them with expert analyses and recommendations on risk management strategies. These efforts not only enhanced his professional portfolio but also kept him engaged with ongoing developments and challenges within the insurance sector.
Impact on Students and Colleagues
A Beloved Teacher
Students and colleagues remember Dr. Puleo for his infectious positivity and dedication to his teaching. Maggie Baranick, a senior majoring in risk management & insurance, poignantly recalled Puleo’s ever-present smile and engaging teaching style. His enthusiasm for teaching was clear, as he would often express that interacting with his students was the best part of his day.
Dr. Puleo’s teaching philosophy was grounded in the belief that education should be both challenging and enjoyable. He encouraged his students to think critically and to approach problems from multiple perspectives. His lessons often included real-world examples, reflecting his years of experience in the industry and demonstrating how theoretical concepts applied in practical scenarios. This approach not only made his classes more engaging but also helped students to retain information more effectively. His genuine interest in his students’ success ensured that he remained approachable and supportive, offering guidance and encouragement both in and out of the classroom.
Contributions to the Field
Dr. Puleo’s colleagues also attested to his significant contributions to the Risk Management & Insurance field. Craig Caldwell, the Dean of the Lacy School of Business, highlighted Puleo’s ambition and his unique ability to merge industry expertise with academic instruction. Caldwell emphasized that Puleo was not merely representing the interests of insurance firms but was deeply focused on delivering quality care through employee benefits packages, showcasing his advocacy for better employee welfare.
From academic research to practical applications, Dr. Puleo’s work consistently advocated for improving industry standards. He authored several key papers that explored innovative methods for managing risk and optimizing insurance plans. He addressed complex issues such as actuarial science, financial stability, and ethical practices within the industry. His forward-thinking ideas often influenced policy discussions and informed decision-making processes within insurance companies. Through his unwavering dedication to the field, Dr. Puleo left an indelible mark that will continue to resonate within the academic community and beyond.
Personal Connections and Lasting Legacy
Student Testimonials
Further testimony to Puleo’s profound impact comes from his students. Jackie Lawrence, a student triple-majoring in economics, risk management & insurance, and Spanish, fondly remembered his Employee Benefits and Retirement class that she took in spring 2024. Despite the subject not aligning perfectly with her interests, Puleo’s teaching made the class captivating and memorable. His passion for the industry was palpable and motivated his students to pursue their passions with similar fervor.
Dr. Puleo’s ability to connect with his students on a personal level made him a beloved figure at Butler. His enthusiasm for the subject matter and his approachable demeanor created a classroom environment where students felt comfortable participating and sharing their thoughts. Many students who initially had little interest in insurance found themselves captivated by his lectures and inspired to explore the field further. Puleo’s genuine interest in his students’ success extended beyond academics, as he often provided career advice, facilitated networking opportunities, and supported their personal growth.
Commitment Amid Adversity
Oscar Sandoval, another senior majoring in risk management & insurance and finance, shared his experience as both a student and an advisee of Puleo. Sandoval recalled how, even amid his cancer treatments, Puleo remained committed to his students, often conducting classes via Zoom or discussing his personal experiences with medical insurance as practical examples. This dedication left a lasting impression on his students and demonstrated his unwavering commitment to their education.
Despite facing significant personal challenges, Dr. Puleo’s commitment to his students never wavered. His ability to continue teaching and mentoring, even during difficult times, reflected his extraordinary resilience and dedication. Students like Sandoval found his personal anecdotes particularly illuminating, as they provided real-world insights into the complexities of medical insurance and risk management. These stories not only enriched the learning experience but also underscored Puleo’s deep understanding of the subject matter and his genuine concern for his students’ comprehension and success.
Beyond the Classroom
Faculty Advisor and Mentor
Puleo’s contributions extended beyond classroom instruction. As the faculty advisor to Butler’s chapter of the Gamma Sigma Iota professional fraternity, he shepherded many students through their academic pathways and into their professional lives. His prolific achievements and unfaltering dedication made him a cornerstone of the Risk Management & Insurance department at Butler.
In his role as a faculty advisor, Dr. Puleo provided invaluable guidance and mentorship to students, helping them navigate their academic and professional journeys. He fostered a supportive community within the fraternity, encouraging students to engage in networking, professional development, and community service activities. Under his leadership, the Gamma Sigma Iota chapter thrived, producing graduates who were well-prepared for the challenges of the insurance industry. His mentorship extended beyond official duties, as he continued to offer support and advice to alumni as they advanced in their careers.
Genuine Care for Students
Notable among Puleo’s traits was his unwavering commitment to his students’ welfare, both academic and personal. According to Caldwell, Puleo’s concern for his students extended beyond their performance in insurance, showcasing his genuine care for their overall well-being. Lawrence amusingly remembered Puleo’s insistence on utilizing the full class period, reinforcing his commitment to their education and frequently stating that teaching them was the highlight of his week.
Dr. Puleo’s holistic approach to education recognized the importance of supporting students on multiple levels. He understood that academic success was closely tied to overall well-being, and he often took the time to check in on his students’ mental and emotional health. His open-door policy made him a trusted confidant for many, and his advice often extended beyond academic matters to life challenges and career aspirations. This deep, personal connection with his students was a testament to his genuine care and compassion, further solidifying his legacy as a beloved educator.
Lasting Support and Dedication
Sandoval reflected on Puleo’s heartfelt dedication, particularly as an advisor. On their last day of class, Puleo assured his students that he would always support them in the future, demonstrating his profound connection with them. This assurance of continued support highlighted the deep bonds he formed with his students and his lasting impact on their lives.
Dr. Puleo’s lasting impact manifested in the continued success and gratitude of his students. Many of them have gone on to pursue influential roles within the insurance industry, attributing their accomplishments to his mentorship and encouragement. His promise of ongoing support exemplified the depth of his commitment, creating a lasting bond with his students that transcended the confines of the classroom. The values and knowledge he imparted continue to influence their professional and personal lives, ensuring that his legacy lives on through their achievements.
Honoring Dr. Victor Puleo
Memorial Services
The loss of Dr. Victor Puleo is deeply felt across the Butler community. Services to honor his life and contributions are planned for January 25th at Trinity Episcopal Cathedral in Little Rock, Arkansas, and another at Butler University on February 24th. The Lacy School of Business will provide further details in the coming weeks.
These memorial services offer an opportunity for the university community, friends, and family to come together and celebrate Dr. Puleo’s life and achievements. Through these gatherings, attendees will share memories, pay their respects, and reflect on the profound impact he had on their lives. The services will highlight his professional accomplishments, his dedication to teaching, and his unwavering support for his students, ensuring that his legacy is honored.
Enduring Legacy
The Butler University community is in deep mourning over the death of Dr. Victor Puleo, a beloved professor and a prominent expert in Risk Management and Insurance. Dr. Puleo passed away on January 3, 2025, at 60 years old, after a prolonged battle with cancer. His death has left a huge void at Butler University, where he was deeply respected and made a significant impact on the institution and his students. Dr. Puleo was not only an outstanding educator but also a mentor and an inspiration to many. His contributions to the field of Risk Management and Insurance were widely recognized and valued. The loss of Dr. Puleo is felt profoundly within the university community, where he dedicated so much of his life to teaching and guiding future professionals. His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the knowledge he shared generously. The loss of such a dedicated and passionate educator has left a lasting impact, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.