<p>Carlos Fuentes, the Mexican novelist and intellectual, died Tuesday, May 15, 2012, in Mexico City. Fuentes, who served the University as professor-at-large, was awarded an honorary degree by Brown in 1997. President Ruth J. Simmons released the following statement on the loss.</p>

Brown University joins the international community in mourning the loss of esteemed novelist and intellectual Carlos Fuentes. Fuentes, one of the world’s most renowned writers and novelists, has left a valuable and enduring legacy through scores of acclaimed works, including fiction, essays, and short stories from which we will benefit for generations.

Fuentes was a much admired member of the Brown community. He was awarded an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters by Brown in April 1997. He served as professor-at-large in Brown's Department of Hispanic Studies since 1996. We looked forward to his time on campus each year, when, in addition to engaging students and offering eloquent readings and lectures, he attracted a following of Latin American scholars, writers, and activists for gatherings and events on topics ranging from politics to literature.

Carlos Fuentes will be remembered for his critical mind, generous spirit, charismatic presence, and supreme talent. He lived a long, full, and storied life, and he enriched our community through his work and many lasting contributions.

On behalf of the Brown community, I extend my deepest sympathies to the family of Carlos Fuentes.

(See also a remembrance by Ted Widmer of the John Carter Brown Library.)