Posted by John Van Bortel on October 14, 2004 at 09:21:18 from 161.11.3.37 bg18interface.ogs.state.ny.us :
I never took Ed Powell's classes while at UB. Instead, I came to know Ed through the students I met there. I found him to be a professor that was more aligned with the students than with the faculty. I always knew where to find him: at the student union or the hippest off-campus parties. Although I spent four years at UB and never took his class, his one lesson for me was more valuable than all the others that I received there. I was about to challenge faculty policies on graduate school eligibility and I asked Ed for advice. As we sat in the student union, Ed's advice was simple: "Before you go into battle, know who your allies are first." His advice that day has rung in my ears ever since. Ed is a true hero for me. I'll always remember him for his courage and wisdom. He helped me when I needed it and his advice that day changed my life forever. I'll always be an ally of my friend Ed Powell, even in death. We miss you Ed.