R.I.P. Professor Dunn

I just received a link from an undergraduate friend. Apparently one of my favorite professors passed away this February.

An engaging and humorous teacher, Professor Dunn was also one of the most challenging. He didn't mess around, he didn't tolerate distraction, and he demanded punctuality, attention, focus, and complete mastery of the material he taught. At the same time, he would give a real-world anecdote to almost every important concept, often drawn from the more odd and funny things out there, including his own student days (when it seemed he learned how to have a pretty good time, and spent a lot of time and money on beer). He also had this smirk on his face much of the time (especially outside of class) that was pretty funny in and of itself. You can sort of see it in the photograph in the linked articles.

A hard grader, it was often said that you would receive a D for Dunn in his classes. However, his demanding style pushed me more than most at the university, and as a result I always got good grades, but more importantly learned a lot. My father sat in on one of Dunn's lectures when he came to visit me early in my freshman year. He was really impressed, and that experience probably went a long way towards his willingness to foot that ridiculous GW tuition in semester after semester where all I seemed to do was play ultimate. I've often told people that the education you get at GW is as good as you want it to be, but you have to seek out the good professors who will push you. Dunn was one of those professors, and made a big difference in my college experience. Somewhat belatedly, thank you.

Rest in Peace, Professor Dunn.