The School of Languages, Cultures, and World Affairs mourns the loss of our beloved colleague and friend, Dr. Conseula Francis.  Conseula’s passion was the African-American Studies program (AAST) at the College, especially its students. She worked tirelessly to establish AAST from infancy to a degree-granting program. She stated that this was her most significant contribution. Her students cherished her for the indelible mark she made on their lives.

One of her former students, Sara Daise, posted to Facebook the following:

“No words for the sureness and empowerment you provided. For the way your black womanhood told me that I could be any kinda black woman I wanted to be. One of my favorite AAST professors who I knew had our backs. I couldn’t make an appointment for a meeting–I’d just have to show up at your office and catch you. And read/borrow your books and hear your stories. I can’t believe you are gone. So suddenly. My heart goes out to your daughters and husband. To all those mourning your loss. To all of us mourning your loss.”

In his statement to the College community in The College Today, President Glenn McConnell stated: “There are few words to express the significance of the loss of Conseula Francis to our College of Charleston family. Professor Francis was a remarkable human being – a passionate educator, a professor’s professor, and a true student advocate. She devoted her life to the pursuit of knowledge and had a tremendous impact on the many lives she touched, mine included. Conseula leaves a wonderful legacy behind at the College, and she will be greatly missed.”

Certainly, the faculty and staff of LCWA share the loss with Dr. Francis’ family, students, colleagues and extended community. We honor her memory and will forever cherish her multiple contributions as a colleague and friend. We will miss her wry humor, infectious smile, and untiring collegiality. Our sincerest condolence is extended to her family.