In Memoriam: Robert “Bob” Mislevy

It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of pioneer and long-standing NCME member Robert (Bob) Mislevy. Bob’s career in educational measurement spanned over 40 years, culminating in the esteemed Frederic M. Lord Chair in Measurement & Statistics at ETS. His contributions fundamentally shaped the field of educational measurement, and his legacy continues to influence the work we do today.

Bob was a visionary researcher who blended psychometrics, statistics, cognitive science, philosophy of science, and technology to advance assessment design, analysis, and validity theory. His work was highly impactful and included numerous high-profile projects, including improving the accuracy of NAEP data inferences, pioneering inquiry-focused science assessments, and co-developing Evidence-Centered Design (ECD)—a framework that remains central to modern assessment methodologies worldwide.

In addition to publishing more than 400 research papers and authoring influential books, Bob earned numerous prestigious accolades. He won NCME’s Annual Award (for technical contribution to measurement) three times (1988, 1990, and 2000), and the Career Award for Contributions to Educational Measurement in 2003. He received AERA’s prestigious Lindquist Award in 2007. Bob was elected to the National Academy of Education in 2007 and elected a Fellow of AERA in 2012.  

Bob’s passing is a great loss to NCME, the field of educational measurement, and the broader research community. His contributions, mentorship, and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on our field and on our members.

Bob will be deeply missed, but his work and influence live on through his legacy of research, innovation and humanity.