I started my career at Carthage College in 2006 as a theatre professor after a career as a scene designer and professional actor.  In fact, it was arranged that I appear as the Doctor in our production of "Uncle Vanya" that year.  After seeing the show, Yuri wrote to the whole faculty (back in those days you could just send a blanket email)--singing the praises of our production and saying it was better than when he saw it at the Moscow Art Theatre!  Well needless to say I was humbled and flattered.  Several years later I asked Yuri to come and speak to the cast of "Stars in the Morning Sky," a play set in 1984 Moscow.  Who better to inform the students what it was really like back then?  He introduced himself as a "big economist"--in every sense of the word!  Then he proceeded to tell us the heartbreaking conditions he had escaped from, opening up to the young actors in a way which I am sure was difficult and painful--how generous of him.  Later he had his wife came to see the play--they gave us a standing ovation, I will never forget it.  Thank you Yuri and on your next journey may you have fair winds and following seas.

I first met Yuri through the Wisconsin Forum which he addressed many times. Afterward, if there was a gathering of more than three people,Yuri was the center of all discussions. A natural story teller, respected scholar and teacher, He leaves a legacy of standing up for freedom and will be missed by many