Ran Hirschl

In memory of our teacher, colleague, and friend.

Our Shared Loss

We have lost Ran Hirschl. A towering scholar. A beloved teacher. A friend to all. Ran lived a life of rare brilliance, courage, and generosity. A University Professor and the David R. Cameron Distinguished Professor of Political Science and Law at the University of Toronto, he transformed the study of comparative constitutionalism, democracy, and courts. His landmark books blazed the path for new fields of inquiry. He challenged settled assumptions. And he inspired scholars across the world.

His impact stretches far beyond publications, prizes, or honors. Ran was a caring mentor, a selfless colleague, and a devoted teacher who enriched the lives of countless students. He brought to scholarship a searching mind, to friendship a loyal heart, and to family an abiding love. Even in his final days, he continued to grade, write, and give. His legacy endures in the disciplines he reshaped, the students he guided, and the many lives made deeper by his presence. He will be profoundly missed.

Our hearts break for his partner and wife, Ayelet Shachar, and their son, Shai. May they find comfort in their memories of Ran.

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