Donald Stewart, who expanded Spelman College’s academic offerings during his decade as its president, has died, the school announced Tuesday.
Stewart was president of the Atlanta college from 1976 to 1986. Under his leadership, Spelman created a computer science major and minor, started a comprehensive writing program and became the first Historically Black College & University to establish a Women's Research and Resources Center in 1981.
Spelman’s endowment, which is a critical tool to recruit and retain students, grew from $9 million to $41 million during his tenure.
“Spelman is a better place for the energy, intelligence, and vision he contributed to building a sturdy Spelman future,” the college’s president, Mary Schmidt Campbell, wrote in a message to students, staff and alumnae.
Stewart died Sunday. His cause of death was not included in the message.
Stewart's appointment as president in 1976 caused controversy, with some students insisting that a woman get the job. Spelman was created to educate African-American women. Stewart told students in his first address that he would not let the "male ego" get in the way of doing what was best for Spelman.
Stewart raised concerns when the college’s Board of Trustees voted in April 1986 to divest of all South African holdings to put pressure on that government to end its practice of racial apartheid. Stewart added “at the same time, I think the board has taken a courageous stand.”
Stewart is survived by his wife, Isabel, two sons and five grandchildren.
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