Steve Frank, former St. Cloud State University professor of political science and founder of the SCSU Survey program, passed away after complications of surgery on June 22.
Steve will be remembered for his many professional accomplishments. However, for those that knew him best it was clear that his love and devotion for his wife Barb and son Thomas were most important to him. Every week Steve would give fresh flowers to Barb.
Steve will also be remembered for his devotion to St. Cloud State, his students, the profession and the community. Steve began his career as Ford Fellow high school teacher before pursuing a career in higher education, and always prided himself on being an energetic and innovative teacher. He served St. Cloud State for 38 years before his retirement at the end of this academic year.
Among Steve’s many achievements was the founding of the SCSU Survey in 1980. He built it from a small class project for his undergrad research methods class into a nationally-recognized survey operation that Nate Silver rated as the third most-accurate poll of its size in 2012. In recognition of his body of work, in 2013 Steve was awarded the inaugural Distinguished Political Scientist Award by the Minnesota Political Science Association. Jim Cottrill, assistant professor of political science and co-director of the survey, said “Steve set the bar very high for us, and I hope that we can continue his mission of educating students through hands-on involvement in survey research with the same energy, enthusiasm and dedication that he brought to his work every day.”
“Steve’s contributions to our university will be felt for decades,” said School of Public Affairs Dean King Banaian. “His engagement of our students through the formation of the SCSU Survey in 1980 is remembered by alumni throughout this state. He was a long-time pre-law adviser as well. Many students from both parts of Steve’s service came to his retirement party in April to tell him the impact he had on their lives and careers.”
Steve’s commitment to the success of his students and to the university extended into all areas of his work. Steve served as chair of the St. Cloud State Department of Political Science, president of the St. Cloud State Faculty Association and president of the Minnesota Political Science Association. He also served as an instructor in the University of Minnesota-Duluth Masters Program in advocacy and political leadership. In addition, he was also active in the larger community and served as a council person for the city of St. Joseph from 2008-15.
Those who have been fortunate to work closely with Steve mourn the loss of a colleague, mentor and dear friend. Steve always took an interest in what was going on in each of our lives, professional and personal. We will miss his guidance, companionship and especially, his emails.