Closing Column

Van Sant and Mary Washington: His Impact Is Everywhere

Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Philosophy George Van Sant passed away Jan. 20, 2013, at age 83. He retired from UMW in 1990, and in 2004 he moved to Irvington, Va., with his wife, Melina Van Sant. She survives him, as do a daughter, four stepchildren, and nine step grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Edward Van Sant, and by three wives, Shirley Van Sant; Peggy Van Sant, the mother of his children; and UMW Professor of English Susan J. Hanna. David Cain, distinguished professor of religion, offered this remembrance of his colleague and friend, George Van Sant, distinguished professor emeritus of philosophy, who passed away in January. The richer we are because of someone, the poorer we are when that someone is gone. Such a someone was George Van Sant. Some close to him called him “George”; some called him “Van” − almost as if his multifariousness needed more than one name. George or Van, as I knew him, was a commanding presence, not only because of his size, his … [Read more...]