Randy Pausch, the Carnegie Mellon University computer science professor who died of pancreatic cancer in July, has been named the "most inspiring person of the year for 2008" by the religion and spirituality Web site Beliefnet.com.

Dr. Pausch's final lecture last year on how to live a fulfilling life was seen by millions on the Internet and was turned into a best-selling book, which catapulted him into worldwide recognition and motivated many people to change their lives. He was chosen for the Beliefnet honor by the Web site's editors from among three finalists selected by Internet voters.

The other two were Christian music artist Steven Curtis Chapman, who sustained his family's spirit after the death of his daughter, and the Boy Scouts of Iowa's Little Sioux Scout Ranch, who helped rescue community members and other scouts after a tornado ripped through the campsite.

"In a time when the Internet is known for odd and often frivolous viral phenomena," said Beliefnet editor-in-chief Steven Waldman, "this is an example of how new media can spread inspiration and hope in a dynamic and meaningful way -- Randy Pausch is one of the clearest examples we have of the powerful impact one human spirit can have on another."

Beliefnet has posted a tribute page to Dr. Pausch at www.beliefnet.com/mostinspiringperson2008.