It is with deep sadness that the Schubert Center mourns the passing of Donald K. Freedheim, Professor Emeritus and Founding Director of the Schubert Center. It is also with deep respect and admiration that we celebrate his life and his lasting legacy on behalf of children and families. In addition to Dr. Freedheim's distinguished career in psychology, in 1997, he became the first Director of the Schubert Center for Child Studies (then the Schubert Center for Child Development) in the College of Arts and Sciences at ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½. He served as the Director until 2001, when he retired, but he remained our center's trusted friend and advisor.
Don's kind and thoughtful approach to forming the Schubert Center is with us to this day. He approached understanding children and families as an inclusive endeavor that should involve all disciplines and, indeed, all of us. He purposively cast a wide net, inviting researchers and scholars from across the ÐÇ¿Õ´«Ã½ and Greater Cleveland communities to participate in work that would contribute to our understanding of children and enhance their well-being and thriving. This included recognizing "childhood" development to expand from birth through emerging adulthood.
To honor his legacy, the annual Kessler-Freedheim lecture series was inaugurated by the Schubert Center in 2017 and has brought an impressive array of scholars, practitioners, community members, and families to enlighten and enrich our experience and understanding of childhood. Even in recent years, when he was unable to attend, Don was so supportive and enthusiastic about this event and all Schubert Center programming, often watching the recordings or live stream and sending thoughts and well wishes on the successful event.
We remember Don as a generous and inspiring presence. Walking the hallways, he always greeted us warmly, encouraging us to pursue our interests and remember how we might influence children's well-being through our work. We admire Don's exceptional professional accomplishments and authentic and uplifting approach to interacting with everyone. It was a true honor and privilege to have known and been led by him. Our thoughts and gratitude are with his family.