I was in disbelief when I serendipitously heard the passing of a former mentor from cancer a month ago. Upon hearing the news, I had flashback images of what it was like to know him during a very challenging period in my life.
I was one of his Teaching Assistants (TA) in the Introduction to Political Theory class that he taught, and I was agonizing on whether graduate school in the department was the best place and right fit for me. Through those difficult times, EVW provided the presence, listening ear, humor, comfort and support that I needed as I transitioned in and out of the world that brought me to where he was.
I did not completely leave that academic world since I still work in the same university setting, but at a far enough distance now, physically and emotionally. My focus just became different because I chose the collegial and gratifying world of undergraduate academic advising than the isolation and fierce competitiveness of graduate academic research.
I remember EVW's eccentricities as well as intense passion for his beliefs. But most of all, I remember how he was instrumental in helping me find the freedom, courage, and strength to welcome and celebrate new beginnings.
Thank you, and rest in peace, Victor.
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