Will Powers - In Memoriam

November 1, 2009

As many of you know, our dear friend and colleague, Will Powers, left us last August at the way too young age of 63. Will and his wife Cheryl Miller were vacationing in Canada when Will died of an unexpected heart attack. The following reflection is by John DuFresne, Chair, Graphic Design.

At the time of his death Will was the design and production manager at the Minnesota Historical Society Press and was highly accomplished and widely respected. To our great fortune, when his busy schedule allowed, he shared his passion and expertise with the College of Visual Arts. Will contributed greatly to the development of a curriculum that featured his love of fine printing and book design. He often taught the second of a unique three course sequence on typography and helped establish the high level of expectation that has led to CVA graphic design students being universally recognized for their advanced skill in the art and craft of using type. Will influenced many lives and will be sorely missed. Yet his legacy will live on in the spirit of the enthusiasm he shared and in the students and associates he touched.