It is with great sadness that I share with you the news regarding the death of our friend and colleague, Professor Stephen J. Stearns (1935-2011).
Professor Stephen Stearns earned a PhD in History from the University of California, Berkeley. He also held a Bachelor of Arts degree from Harvard College and a Master’s Degree from Columbia University. Professor Stearns began his distinguished career at Richmond College in 1967, was tenured in 1970, and was promoted to the rank of Associate Professor in 1980.
Professor Stearns was a historian of early modern England, and his teaching included modern European and United States history. He was particularly interested in foreign policy because of its vital importance and relevance in today’s world.
During his time at CSI, Professor Stearns was a member of the PSC Campus Chapter Executive Committee, a delegate of the University Faculty Senate, and Deputy Chair of the History Department. He also served on the Teacher Education Advisory Committee (TEAC), The Verrazano School Advisory Committee, and the Science, Letters, and Society (SLS) Committee.
In 2010, Professor Stearns was awarded the Dolphin Award for Outstanding Service and Contribution by a Member of the Full-time Faculty. He was deeply committed to the College of Staten Island in a profound way and worked long and hard toward its success.
A memorial at the College will take place later in the spring, and the College will provide further information when it becomes available.
