Nancy Tappan, a well-respected student in the Sustainable Urban Planning Program passed away on July 25, 2018. When it became clear she wouldn’t be returning to school to finish the very end of her program, the George Washington University awarded her an honorary master’s degree.
The program and the community within it were among the most important elements of Nancy’s rich life, so she was very happy to find out about the honorary degree in hospice care, shortly before she passed away.
Dr. John I. Carruthers, program director for the Sustainable Urban Planning Program, was honored to speak at Nancy’s memorial service.
“Losing Nancy was difficult, but her death was decided for us. The really difficult part, for us, lies ahead: living up to the example that Nancy set. Let us live life as Nancy did: passionately, curiously, lovingly. Let us celebrate Nancy’s life by keeping her close, deep in our hearts and at the fore of our minds. Nancy’s impact upon the program—and the lives of those she touched—is indelible.”
In recognition of the importance of Sustainable Urban Planning to Nancy, her family has asked for contributions to be made in her memory to the program by visiting http://go.gwu.edu/inmemoryofnancytappansup.*
*Note: When filling out the form, please choose "Colleges and Schools" then "College of Professional Studies" for the "Purpose of Gift" option. Then, under "Comments and Instructions" please type: In Honor of Nancy Tappan for Sustainable Urban Planning."