Professor Emerita of Psychology shaped generations through mentorship, experiential teaching, and deep personal connection
Presbyterian College is mourning the loss of one of its most influential educators, Dr. Ann Barthold Stidham, a longtime professor of psychology whose legacy spans nearly five decades of teaching, mentorship, and community-building.
Stidham, 90, died peacefully April 22, 2026, leaving behind what colleagues and former students describe as a profound and enduring impact on countless lives.
The Charles A. Dana Professor of Psychology, Stidham served the college for 47 years and was widely recognized for her excellence in the classroom. In 1979, she became the first female faculty member at Presbyterian College to receive the Outstanding Professor Award. She later earned regional and statewide honors, including being named Outstanding Professor in the Southeast in 1992 and receiving the South Carolina Distinguished Professor Award in 1997.
Yet for many, her legacy cannot be measured by accolades alone.
A Teacher Who Made Students Feel Seen
Across generations of alumni, a consistent theme emerges: Stidham had a rare ability to connect with people on a deeply personal level.
“Ann Stidham had a gift for making every student she encountered feel seen, whether you were a psychology major or not,” said Leni Patterson ’83, executive director of strategic initiatives. “Her influence shaped so many students’ lives long after their time at PC.”
That sense of being seen and valued defined her approach to teaching and mentorship, said Dr. Alicia Askew ’92, now a professor of psychology at the college.
“She had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen and valued, offering thoughtful, individual attention that left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered,” Askew said.
Askew recalled a moment from her time as a student that reflected the trust and connection Stidham fostered. When Stidham needed props for a community presentation, she admired Askew’s distinctive boots. Askew offered them without hesitation—even walking back to her dorm barefoot.
“That kind of exchange felt completely natural in the environment she created, one grounded in trust, connection, and mutual respect,” Askew said.
Years later, during a faculty gathering at Stidham’s home, those same boots reappeared—placed at the center of the table.
“It was a meaningful, full-circle moment and a powerful symbol of connection, continuity, and belonging,” Askew said.
Ann Stidham had a gift for making every student she encountered feel seen, whether you were a psychology major or not. Her influence shaped so many students’ lives long after their time at PC.”
Leni Patterson ’83, Executive Director of Strategic Initiatives
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Stidham’s teaching extended far beyond lectures and textbooks. Former students describe courses that immersed them in real-world experiences and meaningful human stories.
Dr. Drew Brandel ’13, now an associate professor of psychology, said Stidham brought “so much of the world to us and us to the world.”
“In Group Dynamics, she took us on a ropes course outing and to a local prison,” Brandel said. “I’ll never forget some of the conversations with the individuals in that prison, and I share some of those insights with my psychopathology classes today.”
Her classes also created space for emotional growth and self-discovery.
“Dr. Stidham’s guidance and support helped me navigate my own ‘coming out’ and self-acceptance process,” Brandel said. “She just had a way of knowing people in ways that helped them better know and understand themselves.”
The lessons she taught—both academic and personal—continue to shape how her former students teach and lead today.
“I can’t think of Dr. Stidham’s legacy without being in awe of the ripple effect she has had on this world,” Brandel said.
A Presence Defined by Warmth and Authenticity
Colleagues remember Stidham not only as an exceptional educator but also as a vibrant personality whose warmth and humor were as memorable as her intellect.
Dr. Sarah Burns ’01, professor of psychology, recalled Stidham’s distinctive style and presence.
“I remember Ann wearing her signature purple as she taught me,” Burns said. “She brought the most interesting characters from the community into our classes.”
Burns also remembered her colleague’s playful defiance and sense of humor.
“I remember her purple Volvo parked diagonally across several spots with her declaring, ‘Let them try to ticket me!’” Burns said. “She was truly one-of-a-kind.”
That blend of authenticity, humor, and care left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.
“Everyone loved her sharp and sometimes very to the point humor,” Brandel added.
A Legacy That Endures
Stidham’s influence extended well beyond her years in the classroom. Through decades of mentorship, she helped shape not only careers but lives—many of them returning to Presbyterian College as faculty, counselors, and leaders.
“As a colleague, she was just as attentive and supportive as she had been as a professor,” Askew said, noting that Stidham’s feedback was always “grounded in a genuine investment in others’ growth.”
College leaders say her impact is woven into the institution itself.
“Dr. Ann Stidham embodied the very best of Presbyterian College,” said college president Dr. Anita Gustafson. “Her extraordinary commitment to her students and her craft transformed lives and helped define the close-knit, student-centered culture that makes PC so special. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”
Dr. Erin McAdams, provost and vice president of academic affairs, emphasized Stidham’s role in shaping the college’s academic mission.
“Dr. Stidham exemplified the power of engaged, student-centered learning,” McAdams said. “She understood that education is not simply about transmitting knowledge, but about forming relationships, cultivating curiosity, and empowering students to grow into their fullest potential. Her work stands as a model for the kind of transformational education we strive to provide at Presbyterian College.”
A Life Well Lived
Born in Steubenville, Ohio, Stidham graduated summa cum laude from Muskingum College in 1957 and went on to earn a master’s degree from Northwestern University and a doctorate in counseling psychology from the University of Tennessee in 1966.
Outside the classroom, she was known for her love of baking and her ability to bring people together, often around her kitchen table during holidays and gatherings.
She is survived by her two sons, Bart and Thad, and five grandchildren.
For those who knew her, Stidham’s legacy lives on not just in memories, but in the countless lives she touched.
“I always refer to her as ‘one of my favorite humans,’” Brandel said. “That’s never been an exaggeration.”
