Beltrán echoed this experience of feeling welcome in Foster’s office at any time. 

“One of the things from Dr. Foster that will always stay with me is the supportive attitude that he always offered to each and every student,” she said. “Countless times we would walk into his office with all kinds of problems or issues, he would listen carefully and offer a quick, easy solution for us, followed by a funny joke that would make us leave his office motivated.” 

Students, faculty, staff and other members of the greater ASU community can view the exhibit during library hours now through Dec. 1. 

The memorial and library exhibit are just two examples of the many ways ASU is continuing to celebrate Foster’s legacy. The ASU Library has also acquired the David William Foster Papers, Valiant said. They are currently processing 27 boxes of his research material on cultural studies in Latin America. 

Donations are being accepted for the Foster Latin American Research Fellowship Endowment, which supports graduate students completing work in Latin American studies with funding for their travel, housing and other expenses while they conduct research beyond ASU. 

A student lounge was dedicated in Foster’s name in the new Durham Hall building, which houses the School of International Letters and Cultures. And next fall, the inaugural David William Foster Memorial Lecture will be held thanks to a generous donation from his wife, Virginia Ramos Foster.  

“David was an extraordinary human being and scholar, a real mensch with an outstanding mind,” school Director Nina Berman said. “He built and put the Spanish and Portuguese section at ASU on the map, and we are excited that we are able to honor his legacy.”

Kimberly Koerth

Content Writer, School of International Letters and Cultures