University mourns Calder Pickett, professor emeritus of journalism


Fri, 11/01/2013

author

Jill Jess Phythyon

LAWRENCE – University of Kansas Chancellor Bernadette Gray-Little and Dean of Journalism Ann Brill released the following statements regarding the death of Journalism Professor Emeritus Calder Pickett:

Gray-Little: "Calder Pickett was a renowned professor and historian of journalism and a charismatic teacher of several generations of journalists. His research and teaching about the history of journalism helped shape how countless students not only practiced their professions but also how they critically evaluated the world around them. On behalf of the entire KU community, I offer deep condolences to his family, friends, former colleagues and former students. Dr. Pickett will be missed and appreciated for many years to come."

Brill: "Calder Pickett was beloved in the journalism school and helped lay the foundation for what our school is today. He brought the history of journalism to life and used it to show students how actions led to history and that the facts can be explored without resorting to nostalgia.

Even now, there is rarely an alumni event where his former students don't ask, ‘Do you know how Calder is doing?’ After so many years, that's a testament to the mark he left on their lives. 

Although Calder may have left us for the place where he was happiest—history—his spirit still lives on in our school, in our drive to excellence and in our personal touch with our students. Godspeed, Calder."

Pickett died Oct. 29 at age 92.

He retired in 1988 after teaching at KU for more than 37 years. While at KU, he won several teaching awards, including the H.O.P.E. Award in 1976, which is chosen by students.

Memorial services will be at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 3, 2013, at Warren-McElwain Mortuary in Lawrence. Burial will follow at Pioneer Cemetery.

 

 

Fri, 11/01/2013

author

Jill Jess Phythyon

Media Contacts

Jill Jess

KU News Service

785-864-8858