Sister Elizabeth Kolmer

An appreciation by Patricia Zahn, Associate Director, Missouri Humanities Council

“Have you ever heard of the Missouri Humanities Council? Do you know anything about them?” It doesn’t seem that long ago that those words crossed my lips and opened up a whole new chapter in my life. The reply was surprising. “Yes. I am familiar with the organization. I am one of the founding directors.” The answer came from Sister Elizabeth Kolmer, ASC., my advisor at St. Louis University, a teacher in the truest meaning of the word, mentor and friend. Her affiliation with MHC was the final sign that I needed to decide to take a position with the organization. Since that time, I have met with Sr. Elizabeth on several occasions to confer on program activity and opportunities for the Council. Little did she know that so many years ago when State Humanities Councils were a burgeoning idea coming into being what type of activity the Council would be pursuing today—Chautauqua, Charettes, Museums on Main Street, READ from the START. Thanks to the efforts of Sr. Elizabeth and others like her, humanities education and programs are accessible to communities throughout the state.

I can honestly say that my relationship with Sr. Elizabeth Kolmer has had a profound effect in my life. I know that I am not alone when I make that statement. I am taking this opportunity to speak of Dr. Kolmer because she has marked a turning point in her life story. In June, she retired from St. Louis University after teaching there since 1964. Dr. Kolmer served as the director of the American Studies Program from 1969 to 1981 and again from 1988 to 1995. A realization of her efforts, American Studies became a department of the University in 1995. In recognition of her contributions in the field, the Mid-America American Studies Association annually gives the Elizabeth Kolmer Award to honor teaching and mentoring in the field of American Studies and service to MAASA.

As recently as last week on a visit to Chautauqua in Maryville and through the years in my work with the MHC, I have made acquaintance with several people whose lives have been touched by Sr. Elizabeth. It is amazing how one person can make a difference to so many others. For these reasons, I think it is fitting to recognize Dr. Kolmer and the contributions that she has made to Humanities education. The Missouri Humanities Council thanks her for her efforts and the individuals whose lives she has influenced are forever indebted. We wish her the best in her retirement.

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