Charles Mitter (1948–2024) Evolutionary Biologist, Consortium Builder, and Leader in Insect Evolutionary Biology.

This article focuses on the life and career of Charles Wayne Mitter, a distinguished entomologist and lepidopterist who passed away in 2024 at age 75. Mitter made significant contributions to arthropod systematics, evolution, and plant–insect co-evolution, particularly within Lepidoptera, and was instrumental in advancing phylogenetic research using genetic tools. He was a dedicated educator and mentor, training 29 graduate students through the Maryland Center for Systematic Entomology (MCSE), a program he co-founded to integrate museum-based research and diverse entomological disciplines. Beyond his scientific achievements, Mitter was known for his collaborative spirit, warmth, and commitment to supporting students and colleagues worldwide.