A Message on the Passing of Sam Harris ’58, Whose Life Inspired Compassion and Courage

Dear Grinnellians,

It is with deep sadness that I share news of the passing of Sam Harris ’58, a member of our alumni family whose life and legacy have left a lasting mark on Grinnell and in the world.

He was a champion for good. He was someone who believed deeply in the power of education, compassion, and human connection to confront hatred and build a better future. Through his life’s work, he helped create spaces for learning, reflection, and dialogue, inspiring countless individuals to stand against bigotry and to lead with empathy and courage.

Sam’s story is one of extraordinary courage. Just four years old when the Nazis occupied his hometown in Poland, he endured the unimaginable horrors of the Holocaust. His entire family, except for two sisters, were murdered in concentration camps. For decades, the weight of those experiences remained largely unspoken. Yet in time, Sam chose to transform that silence into purpose — not only to remember, but to teach, to challenge, and to ensure that such hatred is never allowed to take root again.

After graduating from Grinnell, Sam built a successful career, earning distinction in the insurance industry and recognition among his peers. But it is his life beyond those professional achievements that stands as his most enduring contribution. He gave generously of himself — to his community, to civic organizations, and ultimately to the world.

In the face of rising Holocaust denial in the 1970s, Sam made a decision that would define the rest of his life: he would speak. He would bear witness. What followed was a lifetime devoted to education, remembrance, and justice.

He played a foundational role in building what is now the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center in Skokie, Illinois, helping to create a space where history is not only preserved but used as a call to action. Today, as one of the largest Holocaust museums in the world, it stands as a testament to Sam’s belief that education is one of our most powerful tools against hatred. He continued serving as president emeritus of the museum and a member of its Board of Directors and Survivors’ Speakers Bureau until his passing.

Through his writing, including his children’s book Sammy: Child Survivor of the Holocaust, and through films and documentaries that shared his story, Sam reached generations of learners. His voice — once quieted by trauma — became a force for truth, empathy, and accountability.

This year, Sam was to be recognized by the Grinnell community with an honorary degree at Commencement. While we are heartbroken that he will not be with us in person, we will still honor him and recognize the profound impact of his life and work.

Sam had a remarkable ability to bring people together around a shared sense of purpose. He built communities grounded in hope and understanding, and his voice — steady, thoughtful, and deeply human — encouraged others to listen, to learn, and to act.

At Grinnell, we strive to prepare students for lives of meaning and impact. Sam lived that calling in a way that continues to inspire us. His legacy reminds us of the responsibility we share to care for one another and to stand up for what is right.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his life. May we honor him not only in remembrance, but in how we choose to live and engage with the world around us.

With sorrow,

Anne F. Harris
President