Benno C. Schmidt Jr., a prominent figure in the field of education and a leading constitutional law scholar, passed away on Sunday at the age of 81. His daughter, Elizabeth Hun Schmidt, confirmed his death but did not provide details about the cause.
Born in Manhattan and educated with a remarkable academic background, Schmidt seemed destined for a career in academia. He served as the president of Yale University for six years, during which he faced challenges and controversies while implementing necessary budget cuts and reforms. Although these changes stirred bitterness among some, they ultimately strengthened the university’s financial standing and academic direction.
Schmidt’s most significant impact came during his tenure at the City University of New York (CUNY), where he played a pivotal role in reviving the struggling institution. Appointed by Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani to lead a rescue task force in 1998, Schmidt spearheaded a comprehensive revitalization plan. Over the next 17 years, as vice-chairman and later chairman of CUNY’s board, he hired hundreds of faculty members, established an honors college and graduate schools, and improved the academic standards and success rates of students.
What set Schmidt apart was his ability to address both K-12 and college education. In 1992, he left Yale to become the CEO of Edison Schools, a pioneering company aiming to create a nationwide network of for-profit private elementary schools. While Edison did not achieve its ambitious goals, Schmidt’s involvement helped pave the way for charter schools and other for-profit ventures in primary and secondary education.
Schmidt’s impact extended beyond traditional academia. In collaboration with entrepreneur Chris Whittle, he co-founded Avenues: The World School in 2011. Avenues, an international network of private for-profit institutions, aimed to redefine primary and secondary education.
Before his roles at Yale, CUNY, Edison Schools, and Avenues, Schmidt served as the dean of Columbia University Law School and made significant contributions to constitutional law. His expertise in First Amendment law led him to create and host televised panel discussions about the Constitution for PBS. Additionally, he displayed his versatility by pursuing interests in acting and folk music.
Throughout his career, Schmidt faced criticism and controversy, but many credit him with transforming institutions and leaving a lasting impact on education. Under his leadership, Yale’s endowment nearly doubled, and the university witnessed remarkable growth in the medical and hard science fields. Meanwhile, CUNY emerged as a reinvigorated educational powerhouse, attracting top students and faculty.
Benno C. Schmidt Jr. will be remembered as a visionary leader who fearlessly embraced change and made significant contributions to the field of education. His dedication and achievements continue to shape the landscape of American education.