Students and staff at University of Arizona are mourning the loss of journalism great Donald W. Carson. He passed away on Thursday, Feb. 1 at the age of 85.
The accomplished reporter served as the director of the UA School of Journalism from 1978 to 1985. He graduated from the university with a degree in journalism in 1954.
Carson enjoyed a decorated career as a talented reporter for several organizations, including the Arizona Daily Star and The Associated Press in Phoenix and Washington DC. Carson joined the UA faculty in 1966, becoming a dedicated resource for students. He retired in 1997.
The revered professor emeritus will be inducted into the inaugural UA School of Journalism Hall of Fame on April 7. He’s already a member of the Arizona Daily Wildcat Hall of Fames and the Arizona Newspaper Association.
“Professor Carson was a true gift in my life, as a professor, mentor and friend,” said Gabrielle Fimbres, a graduate of the school and former Tucson Citizen reporter and editor. “… Don inspired us to be curious, tenacious, creative, hard-working and as perfect in our work as possible. When you are writing stories that have the power to impact lives, there is little room for error. Don’s impact as a journalist, educator and incredible mentor lives on in the work of generations of students and professionals.”
For more information on Carson and his contributions to the journalism community, please visit the official UA release HERE.
