William B. Griffen, professor emeritus and past chairperson of NAU’s anthropology department, died March 25, 2016, in Hanover, N.H. He was 88.
Dr. Griffen earned his Ph.D. in 1964 from the University of Arizona. His many years of research and the majority of his publications centered on the 18th and 19th century history of northern Mexico and the interaction of Native peoples, Spanish governors, Anglo settlers and the military. He authored two books on these subjects as well as countless papers and text chapters.
Dr. Griffen’s wife Joyce J. Griffen, also a member of the NAU faculty, preceded him in death in 2013. He is survived by his stepdaughter Jennifer White.
Memorial contributions may be made to the William Griffen Native American Scholarship Fund in Anthropology (#04149).