Robert Viscusi

Bob and I had been friends and colleagues since our first days at BC, and his loss comes as a terrible blow. His impact on the intellectual life of the college we both loved was enormous. The wonderful lecture series and study groups he organized were not merely enlivening; they reached across disciplinary boundaries and helped create a sense of community. Ill always remember him for his witty and incisive conversation and, most of all, for his warm and supportive friendship.

Bob was my idea of an open minded and open hearted intellect. I am sadden by this passing.

In 1989, I had the privilege of having Professor Viscusi introduce me to literary theory while I took my M.F..A. It was perhaps the first time I understood how I was already reading in a New Critical style and how that was only one of many ways to read literature. He was truly and deeply engaging and entertaining as he broadened our knowledge and ways of reading. He then went on to be a mentor of mine, helping me immeasurably to get into the CUNY Graduate Center Ph.D. program, and I also was...

The sudden loss has quickened so many memories of a cordial scholarly and literary association that has vividly defined my life at Brooklyn college since 1976. Bob Viscusi and I first met casually in the lunch room, where my own devotion to things Italian struck responsive chords. He was beginning to explore his own Italian heritage and work toward mastery of the literature and language. On one memorable occasion I traveled to visit him in Asolo, in the Veneto, where he was privileged to...

I want to give my condolences to Robert's family. My first meeting with Robert took place at the Italian American Historical Association where I gave a paper. we subsequently formed the first meeting of the Italian American Writers Association as it later came to be known. The group had its first meeting at my home on 10th st. and went through many evolutions. He often spoke of that volatile, hilarious meeting. I , subsequently made many friends from that group. I will always remember...

Bob was a remarkable and generous individual, with a great passion for life. He never lost his zeal for teaching and learning. A great raconteur and intellectual (in the best senses of that word), he loved people and created community wherever he was. He approached life with the curiosity and joy of an explorer and artist. May his family be comforted by the knowledge of the amazing life he led.

My condolensces for his loved ones. Dr. Viscusi did so much for so many people behind the scenes. He hired me when I was completely lost in my first year of grad school and supported me throughout. I am grateful for having known him.

I am so sad to imagine the world without Bob. He was such a good friend. I mentioned him just the day he died when I said to my partner, "I think the only person with more books than me is Bob Viscusi."

Bob was key to the success of the CUNY Pipeline Program, which I directed from 1991-2007. We worked together over many summers at the Graduate Center preparing CUNY undergraduates for graduate study. His legacy lives on through our students.
Gail Smith