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Campus News

Creative Writing Program Founder Stuart Friebert Dies

The prolific poet, translator, and emeritus professor began his Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ career teaching German.

July 1, 2020

Communications Staff

Peters Hall with a blue sky in the background.

The exterior of Peters Hall.

Photo credit: Matthew Lester

Stuart Friebert, poet, translator, emeritus professor, and founder of the Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ College Creative Writing Program, died on June 23, 2020.

Friebert began his Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ College career in 1961, first teaching German. In 1975, he founded Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµâ€™s Creative Writing Program, which he directed until his retirement in 1997. Friebert also co-founded the poetry periodical , the FIELD Translation Series, and . During his career, he published 15 books of poems, 16 volumes of translations, and four books of prose. 

A celebration of life in honor of Friebert will happen Saturday, June 28, 2025, from 1 to 4:30 p.m. at Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ Community Services (500 East Lorain Street in Âé¶¹ÊÓÆµ). All are welcome, food will be served, no RSVP is necessary, and guests are encouraged to bring memories to share. Photos may be shared in advance with daughter Sarah Friebert at sfriebert@akronchildrens.org.

Read Friebert’s obituary in the


This story was updated April 25, 2025, to included information about the memorial celebration.

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