Jim Wolf ’54: Historian, Actor, Liberal Arts Advocate

While a high schooler in Chicago, Jim Wolf '54 knew that he wanted to go to a small liberal arts college where he could focus on academics and meet students from different backgrounds. Jim reflects that "finding a small and inclusive college environment was very important to me."

Jim made the most of his time at Oberlin. He majored in history, befriended students from varying walks of life, and discovered his love for the theater when he joined the Gilbert & Sullivan Players. Jim ultimately became a history professor at the University of Colorado — Denver for three decades, and he has acted in numerous productions over the years.

Jim is grateful that his Oberlin education opened doors for him both professionally and personally. "To this day, I remain absolutely devoted to the benefits of a liberal arts education." Jim and his wife, Nurit, even sent one of their sons to Oberlin (Alex '89).

Jim's dedication to Oberlin has included stints as an admission interviewer, class president, and class agent. He has also included Oberlin in his estate plan.

"I want my grandchildren and future generations—and the country as a whole—to continue to benefit from a liberal arts education. Cultural diversity will become increasingly important, and I learned that and more at Oberlin."

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