Eugene Arthur TeSelle Jr.

I became aware of Vanderbilt's GDR program because of a mutual friend. I was accepted to the graduate program because of Gene's personal recommendation. I never took classes from him, but chats with Gene taught me in ways that have guided me throughout my life. Gene was a historian who helped shape the personal histories of many. zikhrono livrakha -"May his memory be a blessing."

Belmont-Hillsboro Neighbors, Inc. offers our deepest gratitude for the dedication Gene had for our community. We will carry on the lessons he taught and the vision he expressed.

When I served with Gene on the Board of the Nashville Peace & Justice Center, I would refer to him as "Gene The Greater." He remains an inspiration and reminds me to hold to my convictions.

I was a student of Gene in the 1980s. I remember his deep learning and his willingness to talk to me at length about whatever questions I had or ideas I was struggling to formulate. He was always very kind and helpful. I learned so much from him. I also remember a different kind of learning from him - I admired very much his dedication to social justice. I remember him standing every week to protest the US support of wars in El Salvador and Nicaragua. I remember his encouragement when I was...