In Memoriam
Obituary for Marie-Odile Sweetser Heading link
Marie-Odile Sweetser, 88, professor emerita of French at UIC, died April 6 in Lake Bluff, Illinois. Professor Sweetser, a native of France, was a scholar with an international reputation, widely recognized on both sides of the Atlantic as a major authority on 17th century French literature and culture. She arrived at UIC from City University in New York as an associate professor in 1969 with her late husband, Franklin Sweetser, who was professor of French until his retirement in 1991. Known for her books, book chapters and articles on Pierre Corneille and Jean de La Fontaine, Professor Sweetser produced many other publications in the area of 17th century French studies. For many years, her name was synonymous with French studies at UIC. In addition to her considerable research profile, Professor Sweetser was a beloved teacher and colleague. Her generosity and consideration for younger colleagues was legendary and both John Ireland and Margaret Miner remember her with particular gratitude and affection. After retiring in February 1997, Professor Sweetser remained academically active and a sought-after conference speaker until about three years ago. In 2005, the department of French and Francophone studies established the Marie-Odile Sweetser Prize, awarded annually to an outstanding graduating senior majoring in French. Contributions in support of the Sweetser Prize may be sent to the Marie-Odile Sweetser Fund, University of Illinois Foundation, 1305 W. Green St., MC 386, Urbana, Illinois, 60181.