James Webb, a gifted education researcher and the founder of the nonprofit advocacy group Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted, died July 27. He was 79.
Webb was a former psychology professor and an associate dean of Wright State University and the president of Great Potential Press, an education publisher.
He studied the social and emotional and special education issues in gifted education, writing books including Guiding the Gifted Child, A Parent’s Guide to Gifted Children, and Misdiagnosis and Dual Diagnosis of Gifted Children and Adults.
Earlier this year, he spoke to Education Week about differences in how gifted students respond to trauma and the challenges such students face in the foster-care system.
“His tireless efforts benefitted the lives of tens of thousands, and he leaves a hole in our community that will likely never be filled,” said Lisa Van Gemert, an author with the publisher.
Webb is survived by his wife Janet, six daughters, and six grandchildren.