David Brian Howard

In Memoriam for Ana-Karina Schneider

There is a sudden, deep, and profound shock when a young, brilliant, editor and faculty member passes away unexpectedly. You immediately recall all of the intense moments, whether for good or bad, that you have had the opportunity to share with them over the course of their career, but that is quickly subsumed by the sense of loss for that person in your own, immediate life that leaves you numb contemplating what they could’ve accomplished if they had only been granted a little more time. Ana-Karina was one of those few people you meet in the course of one’s academic career whose sparkling personality, searing intelligence, devoted professionalism, and, importantly for an editor, precision for detail, truly stood out and imprinted themselves on your thoughts and imagination forever.

I was extremely worried and anxious over 15 years ago when Adriana Neagu, the former Editor-in-Chief of American, British and Canadian Studies, announced she was relinquishing her position and that she would be replaced by a dear colleague and friend. I had been working closely with Adriana for a number of years so I was understandably apprehensive about who would replace her given her stellar work and pivotal leadership in building the journal. Adriana, however, knew exactly what the journal needed for a replacement to take the journal to new levels of success, and, in Ana-Karina, the journal had found a stellar replacement. Ana-Karina’s over 15 years as the Editor-in-Chief of American, British, and Canadian Studies, guided, oversaw, and gently nudged the journal to its current status as a vital contributor to the study of Anglophone literature and culture in Europe. Living in North America meant that I only had the opportunity to meet in person with Ana-Karina once, at a conference held in Constanța, Romania, at which time I became acquainted with Ana-Karina’s warmth and understanding, as well as her insatiable drive, commitment, and dedication to the journal and its areas of inquiry. Building on the foundation laid by Adriana, Ana-Karina became a brilliant leader for the journal, lifting it to new heights, and securing the esteemed position the journal holds today. Ana-Karina’s brilliance and visionary leadership is a huge loss for the journal but I will never forget the honour and privilege of having the chance to meet with her in person. I am forever grateful that the journal provided the opportunity for us to work together as colleagues and, ultimately, friends.

David Brian Howard
Nova Scotia College of Art and Design