James R. Beniger

In Memoriam: James R. Beniger,

63

James R. Beniger, the American Association for Public Opinion Research’s president in 1997-1998, died on April 14, 2010, after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. He was 63.

Beniger’s journey with AAPOR began as our association’s Student Paper Award winner in 1975. He was elected president in 1996, helping usher us into the digital era. He was the creator of the AAPORNET e-mail discussion list, he posted its first message and as a frequent contributor demonstrated the breadth of his concerns and the depth of his legendary wit.

"Jim's deep involvement in AAPOR spanned his academic career," said Peter Miller, the association's current president. "He was a charismatic figure who led the association into the digital age. We will miss him greatly."

Beniger was an award-winning communication and sociology professor at the University of Southern California Annenberg School for Communication & Journalism and Princeton University. He authored a highly acclaimed study of the economic and technological origins of the information society.

He is survived by his wife, Kay Ferdinandsen, and daughters Ann and Katherine Beniger of Manhattan Beach; his mother, Charlotte Beniger; and his sister, Linda York. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be sent to the Alzheimer's Association at www.alz.org

Read the full USC obituary here.

Read Beniger's 1998 AAPOR presidential address.

Read the Proceedings of the AAPOR 50th Annual Conference.