James Buchanan

Nobel-winning economics professor passes away

On Jan. 9, James Buchanan, a Mason professor emeritus and Nobel Prize winning economist, passed away at the age of 93 in Blacksburg, Virginia, where he lived.

Buchanan was the founder of Mason's Center of Study of Public Choice, which he founded at Virginia Tech in 1969 and relocated to Mason in 1983. He received the Nobel Prize in 1986 for his work on Public Choice theory. After retiring in 1999, Buchanan continued to serve as advisory general director for Center of Study of Public Choice until his death.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR: James Buchanan and his legacy in economics

Over winter break I was saddened to learn of the passing of Dr. James Buchanan. I would like to offer condolences to Betty Tillman, his secretary of over fifty years.

As Mason’s first Nobel laureate, winning the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economics in 1986, he put the university and its economics program on the map. Buchanan’s work was groundbreaking and has inspired countless colleagues and students. He leaves behind a prolific list of books and papers that he authored as a testament to his work ethic and remarkable mind.

Question Box: Um... What's that house by President's Park?

The Buchanan House is home to 1986 Alfred Nobel Memorial Prize winner of Economic Sciences, James M. Buchanan. Buchanan, 92 years old, is still an active member of George Mason University’s staff.

The house was built in the 1920s and was the former home of previous GMU President George W. Johnson. Later the building was renovated to be used for student research and hold the Center for Study of Public Choice.