William L. Ochsenwald of Blacksburg, professor of history in the College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences at Virginia Tech, was conferred the "professor emeritus" title by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors during the board's quarterly meeting on June 20.

The title of emeritus may be conferred on retired professors and associate professors, administrative officers, librarians, and exceptional staff members who have given exemplary service to the university and who are specially recommended to the board of visitors by Virginia Tech President Charles W. Steger. Nominated individuals who are approved by the board of visitors receive an emeritus certificate from the university.

A member of the Virginia Tech community since 1971, Ochsenwald focused his scholarly research on the history of the Middle East. He wrote four books, 21 articles and book chapters, and dozens of encyclopedia or dictionary entries on the subject. He was an active member of the Middle Eastern Studies Association, the Society for Gulf Arab Studies, and the Turkish Studies Association.

Ochsenwald received his bachelor’s degree and master’s degree from Ohio State University and a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago.

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