SPJ Executive Director Terry Harper Dies

By: Joe Strupp Terry Harper, the seven-year executive director of the Society of Professional Journalists, died Tuesday at his home in Indianapolis after a long battle with brain cancer, according to SPJ President Dave Aeikens. He was 45.

Aeikens, who informed SPJ board members in an e-mail this afternoon of Harper's death, said Harper had just recently stepped down from his post. SPJ officials had posted a notice just this morning advising members of Harper giving up his day-to-day responsibilities due to his illness.

"This is a terrible loss for the Society of Professional Journalists," Aeikens told E&P. "Terry was a wonderful human being and a great guy. The organization is in wonderful shape because of Terry."

SPJ had already appointed co-interim executive directors this past week to fill in for Harper. Aeikens said a permanent replacement is not expected to be named until after the June 27 executive committee meeting.

The entire e-mail to board members is below:

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Subject: Terry Harper

Dear Board and committee members,

It is with a heavy heart that we inform you Executive Director Terry Harper passed away at 1:20 p.m. EST today.

As many of you know, Terry had been battling brain cancer for the past two years. He deserves a great deal of credit for the strong position SPJ is in as the nation's largest and leading journalism organization. He served as executive director for seven years.

Terry was not only a steady, energetic and decisive leader, he was our friend. Terry and his family are in our thoughts and prayers.

For those of you who knew Terry, you won't be surprised to hear there will be a "nontraditional" tribute to him on Saturday evening in the Indianapolis area. On Sunday evening, per Terry's request, there will be a rip-roaring party in his honor. All are welcome to attend. More details will be provided in the coming days.

I hope as many of you as possible can make it to Indianapolis this weekend to show our respect and love for Terry. Anyone who plans to attend should contact Chris Vachon cvachon@spj.org so she can assist with hotel accommodations. Unfortunately, this is not something we can use our stipends to pay for.

As news of Terry's failing health spread the past few days, many of you asked how you could help. We have opened an account on behalf of Terry's family. This money will be used as the family chooses during this difficult time. We will also later be announcing details for a more lasting tribute to Terry. If you would like to help the family, here's how:

Make checks payable to the "Harper Family Fund" and mail to:

Harper Family Fund
3909 N. Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN 46208

Cards and letters of condolence may be sent to Terry's wife Lee Ann, and their boys Dale and Jace, at:

680 Middle Drive
Indianapolis, IN 46201

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Dave Aeikens
National President