Dr. Joseph B. Rukanshagiza

Loudonville, NY-Dr. Joseph Banyanga Rukanshagiza entered eternal life on Sunday, May 4, 2025. Joseph was born on June 6, 1952, in Kabale town, Kigezi District, Uganda, to Tadeo Banyanga and Rose Mukaira. He attended Muchahi and Kashaki primary schools, completed junior secondary at St. Mary’s College, Rushoroza, and senior secondary at St. Leo’s College, Fort Portal. He earned his undergraduate degree from Siena College in Loudonville, New York, before pursuing graduate studies at the State University of New York at Albany, where he received a master’s in sociology with an emphasis on political sociology, a Master of Regional Planning (MRP), and a PhD in Political Development and Africa. Though he lectured and traveled widely, Albany was home for more than 50 years. His journey to Siena College was made possible through the patronage of Robert Reilly and the Brothers of the Holy Cross, who had been his teachers in both Uganda and life. Known affectionately as “Joe Ruk” he became the most decorated runner in Siena College history, earning four All-American honors—two in cross country and two in track. Dr. Rukanshagiza was a scholar, teacher, author, and lifelong advocate for African studies, dedicating his work to critical issues of race, politics, and development. But he was just as well known for his warmth and generosity—welcoming many into his home, never knowing a stranger, and always putting others before himself, especially his family. He touched the lives of students, colleagues, and countless international students whom he helped to feed, house, and mentor as they adjusted to life in the United States. He was preceded in death by his parents, Tadeo and Rose, as well as his sister and five brothers. He is survived by his children, Jacqueline Busingye, Emmanuel Bakarema (Jewel), and Derrick Kihembo (Gabriella); and by his beloved grandchildren, Tara, Theeran, Freddie, Eva Rose-Marie, and Luciana. The family extends heartfelt thanks to the staff at St. Peter’s Hospital and Our Lady of Mercy Life Center. In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Dr. Joseph Rukanshagiza may be made to the Cross Country – Coaches Discretionary Fund or to Siena College for The Joseph Rukanshagiza Fund for International Students. Relatives and friends are invited to visit with Joseph’s family Sunday, May 11, 2025 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at McVeigh Funeral Home, 208 North Allen Street, Albany, NY 12206. Please enter the funeral home from the rear parking lot entrance only. Funeral services Monday, May 12, 2025 at 12:00 pm at St. Pius X Church, Loudonville, NY where his Funeral Mass will be celebrated. To leave a message for the family, please visit www.McveighFuneralHome.com A celebration of life will be planned at a later date.

Tributes

Dr. Joseph B. Rukanshagiza

June 6, 1952 - May 4, 2025