In Memoriam: Charles Blackman

Summary

Professor Emeritus Charles Blackman, a longtime educator and advocate for excellence in education, passed away on Aug. 1, 2023, at the age of 97. Blackman earned his bachelor's degree from Olivet College, completed graduate studies at Ohio State University, taught middle school in North Muskegon and later served the MSU College of Education. Throughout his career, he demonstrated a strong commitment to public education, including service on the Michigan Education Association board and the Okemos School District board of education. He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret "Peggy" Blackman, who was also a professor emeritus in the College of Education.

Professor Emeritus Charles Blackman died August 1, 2023 at the age of 97.

In a black and white photo, Blackman smiles toward the camera in a suit and tie and dark-rimmed glasses. — *Photo courtesy of Michigan State University Archives and Historical Collections*

Blackman received his bachelor’s degree from Olivet College in 1946 and later completed graduate work at Ohio State University. Prior to his role at MSU, Blackman taught middle school in North Muskegon. Blackman was committed to his passion for excellence in education and also served on the board at Okemos School District for many years.

Photo courtesy of Michigan State University Archives and Historical Collections

In 1965, Blackman served a two-year term on the board of the Michigan Educational Association (MEA). This organization helps to evaluate major activities of the statewide association of teachers and school administrators. Blackman was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret “Peggy” Blackman, also a professor emeritus of the College of Education, who died in 2010.

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