The following is President George Benson’s statement concerning the passing of former College of Charleston President Ted Stern:

It is with a heavy heart that I write to tell you that one of the College of Charleston’s brightest lights has gone out. Earlier today, President Emeritus Ted Stern passed away. And while the College may seem a little dimmer at this moment – absent Ted’s infectious smile and laugh – his influence will shine forever across the campus he loved so dearly.

I believe there have been two major eras in the College’s storied history. The first was launched in 1770 by our founders and their vision for a small college that served the Lowcountry. In the second era, from 1970 to the present, the College grew tremendously, transforming into a mid-sized public university with an international reach. That second era likely would never have emerged if not for the leadership of Ted Stern.

Today, we stand on his broad shoulders. And it is all of our responsibility – students, faculty, staff and alumni – to be the diligent caretakers of Ted Stern’s legacy.

The President’s Office will be sending out information about Ted’s memorial service as well as other ways for the campus community to pay their respects to this truly remarkable man and transformative leader.