Fond Farewell: School of Education Teacher and Mentor, Devon Metzger

Announced on: Tuesday, June 03, 2025

Our hearts are heavy to share the news that Devon Metzger, who taught at Chico State in the School of Education for 23 years, passed on December 3, 2024.

Metzger was a deeply influential educator in the North State, inspiring countless students throughout his career and creating a lasting impact that continues today. Born February 27, 1946, Metzger received his undergraduate degree from Manchester College and earned his Master's and Doctorate in teaching education from Indiana University. He began his academic career at the University of New Orleans before joining Chico State as a part-time lecturer in August 1986. He was promoted to a tenure-track position in 1989 and taught at the School of Education until retiring in 2009.

Metzger was a beloved professor of education whose dry wit, generous mentorship, and lifelong dedication to teaching made him a trusted figure among students and colleagues. He was known for his sharp intellect, compassionate listening, and his ability to bring people together around meaningful work.

Professor Emeritus Bruce Grelle met Metzger during new faculty orientation in 1989 and formed an instant connection. "We discovered that we both had family roots in Indiana and that we shared a scholarly interest in the role of public education in a democracy," Grelle said. As friends and collaborators, they made several conference presentations together and co-authored multiple journal articles. "Devon was a generous colleague and a supportive mentor to junior faculty and his students. He was also an avid movie fan. I always enjoyed getting together with him over lunch or drinks to hear his latest reviews and recommendations."

Longtime colleague and friend Professor Emeritus Michael Kotar also noted Metzger's generosity of spirit and dedication to the University's mission, which made a lasting impact on him. "His forthrightness and honesty—even when we disagreed—made him one of the most consequential people in my life," said Kotar. "Devon was a scholar and a connector of people. His deep commitment to democracy in education helped us secure several grants that strengthened teacher education at Chico State, improved collaboration with undergraduate programs, and ultimately led the Department of Education to join the National Network for Educational Renewal."

Metzger is survived by his wife, Dianne Neves; son, Marc Faure; daughters, Leslie Ford and Monique Faure; brothers, Nolan Metzger and Marlon (Pat) Metzger; sisters, Yvonne (Gary) and Ondalee (Steve) Ashleman; grandchildren, Cole Ford, Cameran Ford, Madeline Doten, Benjamin Doten. Devon was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Evelyn (Mishler) Metzger.

The University flag will be lowered on Thursday, June 5, in his honor.