Sewanee Mourns Dr. Jim Davidheiser

Beloved professor, colleague, and friend, Dr. Jim Davidheiser died on September 10, 2025. A member of the college faculty for 38 years, Prof. Davidheiser leaves a lasting legacy in Sewanee and in the study of German. He served as President of Delta Phi Alpha, the national German Honor Society, was awarded the certificate of merit by the American Association of Teachers of German, and was recognized for his service to the profession with the Jacqueline Elliott Award by the Tennessee Foreign Language Teaching Association. Among his many noteworthy achievements, closest to his heart was the German House. Founded in 1977, the house hosted dozens of German exchange students and has served as the hub for department events for nearly five decades.  Known for his infectious energy and enthusiasm, Prof. Davidheiser touched the lives of countless students at Sewanee and in Germany. Through his teaching and mentoring, he built lasting international exchanges, fostered a community of learning, and sustained lifelong friendships.

Read Dr. Davidheiser's Obituary

You may make a donation in Dr. Davidheiser's memory to support the German House or scholarships for study in Germany.