Griffith, the director of the University’s philosophy and social policy graduate program, had been recovering from several torn ligaments in his kneecap when he fell last month, causing brain trauma, according to a release from the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences.

Griffith was born in 1936 and worked as a faculty member since 1964 – through five GW presidents.

He was a top faculty insiders after serving one of the longest ever spans on the Faculty Senate, spending time as chair of the executive committee and budget committee. He spent time advocating against hiring and budget cuts, a new academic credit system and space constraints.

Griffith, who held an endowed position as the Elton professor of philosophy and public policy, earned his Ph.D. from Yale University in 1963, and joined the GW faculty one year later after he served in the U.S. Army.

“Renowned and much loved for his wise counsel, calm and even keel, gentlemanly manner, and unfailing wit, Bill was continually sought out by students, colleagues, and administrators for mentoring and advice,” a Columbian College release read. “Bill Griffith will be remembered by legions of students for his kind but firm guidance, his wide-ranging knowledge, and high standards.”

Griffith received the Oscar and Shoshana Trachtenberg Prize for Service, awarded to tenured faculty who actively participate in institutional governance, in 1993.

He is survived by his wife Patricia Griffith, who teaches creative writing, contemporary drama and dramatic writing at GW.