Kansas University has lost one of its academic giants with the death of Jim Seaver. He was the epitome of a university faculty member, quiet and highly respected. The longtime faculty member was a powerful force on and off the campus, not necessarily because he injected himself into contentious issues, but because he was held in such high regard by those genuinely interested in the betterment of the university and the community.

Seaver was the perfect example of the true renaissance man. He was a scholar in every respect with varied interests in Western civilization, history, architecture and music. He was a nationally known opera commentator and a frequent foreign traveler. He was a skilled and successful collegiate athlete and counseled and advised thousands of university students. He was a powerful, thoughtful and effective speaker, a superb bridge player and served as president of KU’s Faculty Senate. He was interested and knowledgeable about the political scene and … he was a very nice person.

Times, conditions and the environment change, but few KU faculty members have left such a mark on the university as did Jim Seaver. The university needs more faculty members and Lawrence needs more residents like Jim Seaver.