Stephen Garrett

Stephen Garrett joined the Monterey Institute of International Studies faculty in 1972, and was a respected scholar and dedicated teacher, focusing on such themes as American foreign policy, the intelligence community and ethics and international affairs. It was with great sadness that we received news of his passing on Saturday, June 11, after a brave struggle of several months following a surgery.

Professor Garrett was a beloved member of the Monterey Institute faculty, inspiring students with his knowledge and wonderful spirit. For close to four decades he kept pushing students to do their very best work while engaging them with his wisdom, love of learning and sharp humor. Alumni from around the world kept in touch with Stephen over the years as he served as mentor, teacher, and friend. He left an indelible mark with community members near and far, as demonstrated by the great number of cards and letters he received from students and alumni during his illness.

This fall the MIIS community came together, along with Marta, Stephen’s wife of fifty years and their children, Crister, Karolina and Eric, in the Irvine Auditorium to celebrate a life well lived. It was a wonderful event that had the audience alternating between joyous laughter and deep thoughts about life, a fitting way to say good-bye to an inspirational educator and friend.