In Memoriam: Steven J. Stanhope

Steven J. Stanhope, a pioneering biomechanics researcher and retired University of Delaware professor and administrator, passed away Aug. 2, 2024, at home with his family, after a brief but intense battle with a rare form of lung cancer. Dr. Stanhope, who was 66, had previously survived an aggressive battle with prostate cancer.

At UD, Dr. Stanhope had served as professor of kinesiology and applied physiology in the College of Health Sciences and associate vice president for research.

"When I think of Steven, the first words that come to mind are: bold, driven and hardworking. Steven was an incredibly dedicated scientist and administrator," said William Farquhar, dean of the College of Health Scienes. "As a strategic, big-picture thinker, he played a critical role in helping secure support for our research infrastructure. And as a thoughtful, compassionate mentor, he inspired and encouraged those fortunate enough to spend time with him. Steven's legacy of unwavering commitment, coupled with his tireless pursuit of excellence, will continue to resonate within our hearts and inspire his students for years to come."

Dr. Stanhope's research in the areas of biomechanics and rehabilitation sciences focused on helping people reach their optimal level of function when an injury, disease or other health related condition results in physical disability. His interests centered on rehabilitation biomechanics and the clinical application of human motion capture, analysis and simulation methodologies. Specific topic areas included gait, balance, prosthetics and orthotics, modeling pediatric obesity and, more recently, joint stiffness, bone shape, rapid virtual prototyping of advanced prostheses and orthoses.