The Department of Language and Foreign Studies dedicated the building next to the Department of Public Safety in memory of former College of Arts and Sciencess Professor Jack Child on Oct. 6.
The building was formerly known as the Language and Foreign Studies building.
Child was known throughout the University for his kindness and humility.
“He really will never be forgotten,” President Neil Kerwin said at the dedication ceremony. “As people pass this building, they’ll be reminded of not only extraordinary life, extraordinary career, but they will also see a person of generous spirit.”
Child died June 18 from open-heart surgery complications at the age of 73.
He began his AU career as the School of International Service assistant dean in 1980. After nine years, he stepped down to serve as a professor in the College of Arts and Sciences to pursue his passion for Latin America.
CAS Dean Peter Starr said at the dedication that Child will have a lasting impact on the AU community.
“We just want to say how desperately we are going to miss Jack and how much we appreciate everything he’s done for the school, department and university,” Starr said.
Child’s wife, Leslie, attended the dedication for her husband.
“As a family, we are honored,” she said.
More than 10 faculty offices, a conference room and small lounge make up the interior of Jack Child Hall.
Maps of various countries and pictures of different cultures from the world decorate the walls in honor of Child’s passion.
“Jack Child Hall is a multilingual and multicultural mosaic, much like the Latin America to which Jack Child devoted his scholarship,” said LFS Department Chair Olga Rojer. “He would be proud that this hall promotes that.”
Meng Shi contributed to this report.
