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Students and colleagues at the University of Utah are remembering a popular administrator on campus for his passion, enthusiasm and knowledge.
Craig Forster was hiking in Zion National Park on Friday when he fell and died after suffering head injuries. The 55-year-old was hiking with his wife and another couple when the accident happened.
Forster was the director of the Office of Sustainability at the University of Utah and a longtime professor at the school, specializing in hydrogeology.
Today, stunned students and co-workers remembered Forster for his positive attitude, friendly demeanor and passion for trying to create a better environment for future generations.
"It's not just the bike racks or the recycling, it's really that the students have some voice now and their ideas are being put forward to the university in a real positive way. That's a real legacy that he leaves behind," said Brenda Scheer, dean of the College of Architecture.
Professor Stephen Goldsmith, with the College of Architecture, said, "It's a huge loss for the entire community. He was a champion of the elegant processes that we use to create the best community we can. His reach was extraordinary."
Students say one of his biggest legacies is the sense of empowerment he gave to students. "It's been a tough reaction for a lot of people because we've been making such incredible progress with sustainability, and Craig Forster has been the hand that makes that move," Dallas Hamilton said.
There's an effort under way to rename the Sustainable Campus Initiative, which Forester spear-headed, the "Craig Forster Sustainable Fund."
E-mail: jdaley@ksl.com
