Don & Laura Jane Keister Memorial Essay Prize

The Donald A. and Laura Jane Keister Memorial Essay Prize in Literature honors the memory of Donald A. Keister (B.A./M.A. ‘32), and his wife, Laura Jane (’33). Don held posts at The University of Akron as English faculty, chair of the Department of English, head of the General Studies Program, chair of the Humanities Division, and dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. He was known for his great love of literature and the humanities. His enthusiasm for his subject matter was communicated to many students over the years. Laura Jane Keister graduated from Buchtel College of Arts and Sciences in ‘33. She was a lifelong member of the University community and a member of Bierce Library circulation staff for 25 years. She was also archivist of the library’s collection of historic photographs. She was an author and member of many community organizations. The Donald A. and Laura Jane Keister Memorial Essay Prize in Literature is to be awarded each April for an outstanding essay in literary studies written by a graduate student. The recipient will be chosen by a committee of English graduate literature faculty.