Michael F. Dacey

Michael Francis Dacey (March 23, 1932 – December 23, 2006) was an American geographer known for his significant contributions to mathematical models in quantitative geography. Dacey founded the department of Mathematical Methods in the Social Sciences at Northwestern University, where he served as a senior associate dean in the College of Arts and Science, as well as a professor of geography, anthropology, and geological sciences.

Education and field Dacey earned three degrees in geography: his B.S. from the University of Kansas in 1954, his M.A. in 1955, and his Ph.D. in 1960, both from the University of Washington. He worked as a Ph.D. student under geography professor Edward Ullman, who served as an advisor. He was highly influenced by University of Washington geography professor William Garrison at this time. Darcey's work is cited by Arthur Getis as underpinning the origin of the concept of spatial autocorrelation, and is credited as the first geographer to cite P. A. P. Moran, and Roy C. Geary.

Awards and recognition

During his career, Dacey received several honors and awards. These include:

1981 Northwestern University Distinguished Teaching Award 1971 American Association of Geographers Meritous Contributions Award

In 2004, the Michael F. Dacey Award and Jeanette M. Dacey Award were created by the MMSS to honor Michael Dacey and his Wife Jeanette Dacey for their contributions to the program. These cash awards are given to students at the MMSS graduation party for most outstanding senior thesis and best performance in required coursework.

Personal life

Michael and his wife Jeanette had one daughter. At the time of his death, he had one granddaughter.