Paean to a beloved professor

A while back my American professor, Eric Gardner, passed away in Syracuse, New York, but I didn’t know until years later. I imagine that, if I’d had the opportunity to say something at his funeral, it would go like this:

I took time off from my graduate studies at Syracuse University to collect data in Bangkok for my doctoral research. Facing unexpected difficulties, I wrote to the dissertation committee about changes necessary for approval. Professor Gardner approved my request, adding, “I also wish to thank you for the beautiful Christmas card my wife and I received from you. It was very thoughtful of you to remember us. Best wishes for the New Year and best of luck in pursuing the work on your dissertation.”

Someone said he was a “perennial teacher”, using every situation to teach about other people and about life and always ready to help others. I couldn’t agree more, because I was one those whose life was touched by his generosity. His gentle and caring attitude was clearly seen and deeply felt every I picked up his letter and reread it.

Surapon Vatanavigkit