The Alumni Spotlight is a place to hear from the School of the Arts alumni community about their journeys as artists and creators.
Charles Ward '93 holds a B.A. (Philosophy and English), University of Pittsburgh, 1988; M.F.A. (Creative Writing), Columbia University, 1993; J.D., Brooklyn Law School, 1996. He is the Co-founder of MemoryHub, Seven Oaks Hospice Care, Wall&Main, and RedKite.com. He is also a member of the New York State Bar. Married to Marita Schardt, 3 children, lives in Pittsburgh, PA.
Was there a specific faculty member or peer who especially inspired you while at the School of the Arts? If so, who and how?
Bill Matthews; 1990-1993.
How did attending the School of the Arts impact your work and career as an artist?
Helped me be a better writer. As an entrepreneur, I've started 4 companies and my contributions were enormously helped by my writing and critical thinking skills.
What were the most pressing social/political issues on the minds of the students when you were here?
The anti-colonialism of Edward Said and Prof. Spivak.
If you could revisit any piece you created during your time at the School of the Arts, which would it be? Why?
My poems about my family.
What was your favorite or most memorable class while at the School of the Arts?
Reading the Divine Comedy with Bill Matthews.
