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Roderick French Obituary
DR. RODERICK FRENCH
Born: April 5, 1931
Died: June 23, 2022
As a former philosophy professor and vice president for academic affairs Rod devoted almost 30 years to George Washington University.
Born in La Grande, Oregon, he graduated from Kenyon College and then began his graduate studies at Union Theological Seminary in New York City.
He served as the head of the youth department for the World Council of Churches in Geneva, Switzerland from 1959-1964.
He subsequently worked for the peace corps before joining the faculty at GW in 1968. He served as the head of the Division of Experimental Programs and was at the forefront of creating the university's first classes in environmental studies.
In 1982 he was appointed as Vice President for academic affairs at GW.
In 1998 he accepted the position of Chancellor at the newly formed American University of Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates. Dr. French retired as Chancellor of AUS in 1993. He served on its Board of Trustees until 2012.
He has resided at Maplewood since 2011. He is survived by his wife, Sally French, his sister Suzanne Cameron, his two children, Erick French and Sarah D'Imperio, and four grandchildren.
A memorial service was previously held on Sunday, August 14, 2022 at Maplewood Manor, Bethesda, MD.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Roderick French
2 Entries
Wilton Corkern
August 25, 2022
To the family of Roderick French,
Rod was a professor, graduate school mentor, and friend for nearly fifty years. He gave me the lead and recommendation for my first new job after graduate school. He was one of the most intelligent people I have ever known, and he always thoughtful and kind. I used to enjoy seeing him from time-to-time at the Cosmos Club, but have not been in touch for a couple of years. I am deeply saddened by his death. Please accept my sincerest condolences.
Wilton Corkern
Maurice A East Mickey
August 24, 2022
Fond memories working together to strengthen and grow international affairs at George Washington University.
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