Remembering William J. Edgar — Our Socrates

William J. Edgar, Distinguished Teaching Professor Emeritus of Philosophy, quietly shaped many lives of his studetnts and colleagues during his 36-year career at Geneseo. He began teaching philosophy at Geneseo in 1969 and served as chair of the department from 1978 to his retirement in 2005. He earned the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching — twice — in 1974 and 1976. In 2008, Geneseo named the Edgar Fellows program in his honor.

He died on Nov. 10, 2011. He was 78. Bill will be remembered as a legendary figure who had a hand in many of the things that make Geneseo the college it is today and for being a mentor, visionary and inspiration.

In his memory, alumni have shared their memories of Bill. Share your own on the Storify page, or read along with fellow alumni.

Read a correspondence from President Christopher C. Dahl to the campus community in honor of Bill.

Read a special column written by Distinguished Teaching Professor of History Bill Cook in remembrance of Bill in the Livingston County News.

Enjoy the photo gallery of images of Bill throughout the years: