Stephen Feinstein

Dr. Stephen Feinstein was a Professor Emeritus of History at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF), serving from 1969 to 1999. After retirement, he became Director of the Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies at the University of Minnesota and held an Adjunct Professor role there. His research focused on Holocaust and genocide studies, European history, and the intersection of art and historical memory. Feinstein delivered the inaugural Edward N. Peterson Lecture Series talk in 2007 titled 'When 'Never Again' is a Cliché: The Complicated Role of Rescuers in Genocide.'

Feinstein’s work emphasized preventing future atrocities through historical understanding. He built the University of Minnesota’s Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies into an internationally recognized institution. His legacy includes a donated personal library now housed at UWRF’s Chalmer Davee Library, focusing on Russian, European, Middle Eastern history, and genocide studies.

Feinstein’s death in 2008 was marked by widespread recognition of his humanitarian contributions and academic rigor. Tributes highlighted his generosity, humor, and dedication to fostering dialogue about historical injustices.