Robert Kilgo Ackerman

Bob Ackerman was a man of integrity and a visionary leader at Wesleyan College.

I was very sadden to hear of Dr. Ackerman´s passing. I started my career at Wesleyan the same year that he did. I always admired and respected Dr. Ackerman for his integrity, his intelligence , and his kindness. He was a wonderful President at Wesleyan, with a real commitment to learning and to the highest standards for the students.

I was fortunate to have Dean Ackerman for my freshman seminar at Drew University for the Fall semester 1979 on the Civil War including a memorable trip to Gettysburg, PA- I still have the souvenir box I picked up there. Wonderful teacher and great person. I also remember his sister and brother-in-law Bettye Ackerman Jaffe and Sam Jaffe receiving honorary degrees-a special moment for him. May Robert Ackerman's memory be for a blessing.

My sincere condolences to the Ackerman family. Dr. Ackerman was president of Wesleyan while I was a student there and I've always held him in the highest regard. He was a great leader and exhibited humility and humor while doing so. Heather Brown, Class of 1988

May: Bob was a man of principle and integrity. I cherish his memory and I greatly admired his commitment to academic freedom and the free exchange of ideas. I was privileged to serve as a faculty member under his leadership, and I greatly appreciated his support of faculty to pursue knowledge and express their views even if they disagreed with his own views. He was a great man, and I morn his passing.

Bob was such a kind man, and so knowledgeable about history. His classes for senior adults, which he taught at The Shepherd's Center, Lexington, SC were always a popular choice among participants. He was missed when he moved away. He and Mae contributed so much to Lexington UMC, we remember them fondly.

I met Dr. Ackerman within the first month of my time at Wesleyan and somehow ever since that day we forged a friendship that has lasted the test of time. I left every conversation with him a better scholar, a better citizen and a better person. I will always remember my last visit with the Ackerman´s- you both were still in SC. He looked over to you, May, and said "Isn´t she beautiful?" That to me says everything about his legacy- how special he made us all feel. May sweet memories,...

May -- You likely won't remember me, but I started my career teaching at Wesleyan while Bob was president and was fortunate enough not only to teach there but also to work with Bob on several projects. Thinking of you during this time.

Mrs. Ackerman, Mark, Roxanne, Bettye and to all your family, God´s peace be with you all. "Dr. Ackerman" was beloved by so many as he lived an amazing life of humble service. His time at Wesleyan provided such growth for the college. Every Wesleyanne owes him such a debt of gratitude. I am personally so honored and blessed to have had him as a role model of what true Christian servitude is and should always be. I can imagine God´s greeting upon Dr. Ackerman entering Heaven, "Well-done, good...