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Dr. Fretwell was larger than life. He was a caring man. I am better for knowing and working with him.
I had the good fortune to work with Dr. Fretwell when he was the interim President at the University of Massachusetts. I was on the Board of Trustees during his one year tenure, and the University was better for the relationship, brief as it was. He was one of those people who couldn't help but look up to - in every sense of the word! I am saddened to learn of his passing, but seeing his obituary made me remember him fondly.
I met E.K. some twenty years ago when we both served as consultants on a national committee. He subsequently took an interest in my career, and he became a wise and available mentor to me. He understood the challenges that I faced as the first African American president of two historically white universities. I took great comfort in knowing that he was among my trusted colleagues during my investiture at Eastern Illinois University, which happened to be his mother's alma mater. What a princely man he was in every sense. Carol Diann Smith Surles
Dear Barbara, Peggy, Jim, and Katie -
Our lives and work at UNC Charlotte have been shaped and formed in remarkable ways by the inspirational leadership and friendship of E.K. and Dorrie. We are so grateful. We send our deepest sympathy and affirm that in the words of the Psalmist, you have a "goodly heritage."
Sincere condolences to the family!
Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.