Honor the life and legacy of Dean James Rainey

James F. Rainey of East Lansing, Mich. passed away on Tuesday, May 23 at the age of 83. Born in the Chicago area, Jim was raised with two sisters by his parents, Drs. Clarence Wager and Clarissa Devney Rainey.

He attended St. Joseph Elementary School and New Trier High School then graduated from Notre Dame University (B.S. Chemical Engineering 1961), University of Chicago School of Law (LL.D 1964), and Michigan State University (MBA 1966). Jim was hired that year as Assistant Professor of Business Law and in 1969 he became the Assistant Dean of Business at Michigan State. He was also an early member of the Student Faculty Judiciary. But looking back, Jim was best known by alumni as Dean Rainey who was “firm but fair” and “demanding with a heart” in his advising of students.

Honor his legacy by making an impact on Hospitality Business students. 

Dean Rainey was a member of the MSU faculty for nearly 50 years. As former Associate Dean for Academic Affairs in the Broad College of Business, his influence touched thousands of business students including those in hospitality business. For many years, he served as an adjunct professor in The School of Hospitality Business teaching Hospitality Business Law. He also served as The School’s Director of Academic Programs, providing his special brand of leadership and insight to its undergraduate and graduate programs.

The James F. Rainey Endowed Fund in Hospitality Business is used to support student travel to regional, national, and international conferences. Make a gift today! 

Make a Gift by Mail:

University Advancement
Spartan Way
535 Chestnut Road, Room 300
East Lansing, MI 48824

*Make check payable to Michigan State University and write “Appeal 23OOPCF1JRAINME” in the note section.

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