More Than An Academic

To the editors:

Harvard College Professor and Professor of History William E. Gienapp was the quintessential professor—caring, accessible, brilliant (News, “Beloved History Professor Gienapp Dies,” Oct. 30). I remember being moved to tears during his Civil War class; he inspired the love of learning and social justice. When I nominated him for a teaching award, he promptly took me to lunch.

Our conversation on the Civil War, my paper topic, and our backgrounds, while munching over burgers at the Harvard Brew House, remains a highlight of my college years. Professor Gienapp will always be one of my favorite professors and human beings; he is sorely missed.

Jobe G. Danganan ’99

Berkeley, Calif.

Oct. 30, 2003