Dr. James Woodward

In Memoriam, Dr. James F. Woodward:

Professor Emeritus of History and Adjunct Professor of Physics

 
Dr. Woodward's research explored the evolution of scientific investigations and understandings of space. He was especially interested in wormholes and the discoveries of new planets. Colleagues recall his creativity, likeability, and athleticism as a casual basketball player. He remained an active, committed historian who supported and expressed interest in the scholarship of younger faculty long after his retirement from CSUF. Dr. Woodward's generous support of a faculty research award enabled History faculty to travel to distant archives and publish articles, books, oral histories, and exhibitions.
 
If you would like to contribute to the Woodward History Department Faculty Achievement Award, please follow this link: Donate to the Woodward History Department Faculty Achievement Award.

A few years ago, long after he had retired and at an advanced age, I witnessed Jim Woodward skip the elevator and climb 6 flights of steps at McCarthy Hall. An esteemed colleague in the History Department and great scholar, Jim Woodward often chose the more challenging routes in life and research. Most recently, I remember him working on a prestigious project funded by NASA and hope he finished it. Jim was also so generous to the History Department, setting up funds that supported so many faculty's trips to archives and publications. His fight to the last minute with enormous physical challenges and always in high spirits have inspired me and many other people! Jim, may you rest in peace. Now you don’t have to climb stairs and can dream about your project freely.

Laichen Sun, Professor of History