A Lasting Investment in Student Success

Saif Mehkari, professor of economics, is the inaugural recipient of the John F. Benton, B'73, Faculty Fellowship, an endowed fellowship created by David W. Briggs in loving memory of his late husband, John F. Benton, B'73 (1950–2023). The fellowship honors Benton's lifelong commitment to leadership, mentorship, and the University of Richmond by recognizing faculty members whose work transforms the student experience through exceptional teaching, engagement, and service.

Throughout his distinguished career in public service, Benton believed that great leaders are shaped by great mentors. Early in his career, experienced colleagues invested in his growth, providing guidance that helped him develop both professionally and personally. As his career progressed, and especially during his more than 16 years with the Smithsonian Institution, ultimately serving as its Deputy Undersecretary for Finance and Administration, he made it his mission to provide the same encouragement and guidance to others that had nurtured him.

"John always believed that people learn best when someone takes the time to invest in them," Briggs said. "He mentored employees, colleagues, and volunteers throughout his life. He had a remarkable ability to offer constructive feedback in a way that encouraged people and helped them become more confident and capable."

That commitment to helping others extended far beyond his professional life. Whether serving in government, nonprofit organizations, or his alma mater, Benton consistently sought opportunities to develop future leaders.

Following Benton's passing, Briggs wanted to create a lasting tribute that reflected who John was, not simply what he accomplished.

"John had already made a commitment to the University by establishing a scholarship in honor of his mother," Briggs said. "While that recognized someone he deeply loved, I wanted to create something that recognized him. The Robins School gave him the foundation for a lifetime of leadership, and I couldn't think of a better way to honor his memory than by supporting the faculty members who inspire students every day."

The fellowship recognizes exceptional Robins School faculty members who exemplify the values Benton championed throughout his life: student engagement, academic leadership, intellectual curiosity, collaboration, integrity, and service. Recipients receive a three-year appointment, recognizing both their past contributions and their continued commitment to enriching the student experience.

Briggs hopes the fellowship will serve as a lasting reminder that students remain at the heart of the University's mission.

"My hope is that it continues to recognize faculty who prepare students not only for successful careers, but for meaningful lives. I also hope the spirit of mentorship John embodied continues to be passed from one generation to the next," said Briggs.

The inaugural recipient, M. Saif Mehkari, embodies those ideals.

Selected after receiving numerous nominations from colleagues, Mehkari was recognized for his exceptional dedication to students through teaching, mentorship, faculty leadership, and engagement both inside and outside the classroom.

"John Benton had a distinguished career in public service and was deeply committed to the University of Richmond," Mehkari said. "This fellowship represents values of leadership, service, and dedication to student engagement. Those are values I hold dear, making it a true honor to be named the inaugural fellow. I hope to carry forward John’s commitment to the university in how I teach and mentor."

Mehkari plans to use the fellowship to expand opportunities for students through his leadership in programs like Endeavor RSB and Math-Econ by providing mentorship, research experiences, and meaningful intellectual engagement beyond the classroom. He also looks forward to continuing his service to the University through faculty leadership and campus initiatives.

"Fellowships like these comprehensively recognize the impact of faculty," Mehkari said. "In addition to the core teaching and research mission, they also celebrate student mentorship, institutional service, and the creation of an environment where students are challenged, supported, and encouraged to grow."

For Briggs, seeing Mehkari named the inaugural fellow affirmed his vision for the program.

"Saif was nominated time and again because of his unwavering commitment to students," Briggs said. "He works with student organizations, mentors individuals, and genuinely invests in their success. He was exactly the kind of faculty member John would have admired."

Although Benton never sought recognition for himself, Briggs believes the fellowship ensures his legacy will continue through the faculty members who inspire future generations of business leaders.

"John always believed he was part of something larger than himself," Briggs said. "He would have said he was simply doing his part. This fellowship allows us to recognize the extraordinary impact he had while ensuring that his commitment to leadership, mentorship, and service lives on through the people who educate and guide our students every day."