Benjamin Pearson, professor of communications at Tulane University, passed away this past weekend. He is remembered by his wife, Kiersten Tarr, and his many friends, loved ones and grateful students.  

Tarr is a third-grade teacher at the Willow School.  

A friend of Tarr, Marguerite Oliver, posted a GoFundMe to help her with funeral and family support expenses. They have currently raised around 90% of their $10,000 goal.   

Before coming to Tulane, Pearson earned degrees from the University of California, Santa Barbara, Dartmouth University, University of Michigan, University of Groningen and Deusto University. Pearson’s research on communications brought him across the world, from northern Spain to sub-Saharan Africa. He was currently working on a book focused on North-South media flows, according to an email from Brian Edwards, dean of the School of Liberal Arts.  

“In his short time in New Orleans, he and his wife became members of the Broadmoor community. His loss will be felt immensely, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family,” Edwards said.  

Edwards also said he will announce details of memorial services as they are made public.  

“He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him,” Oliver said.