What does it truly mean to lead a life of purpose and passion, navigating the complexities of personal relationships while championing causes larger than oneself? Lola van Wagenens journey, marked by intellectual pursuits, unwavering activism, and a life interwoven with both public and private figures, offers a compelling answer.
Born on December 19, 1938, in Provo, Utah, Lola van Wagenen's life has been a tapestry woven with threads of history, social consciousness, and personal resilience. From her early upbringing within a Mormon family to her later roles as a historian, activist, and producer, van Wagenen has consistently demonstrated a commitment to making a tangible difference in the world. Her story is one of intellectual growth, advocacy for important issues, and the courage to forge her own path, even amidst the glare of public scrutiny.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Lola van Wagenen |
| Date of Birth | December 19, 1938 |
| Place of Birth | Provo, Utah, USA |
| Education | Bachelor's Degree from Vermont College, Master's Degree in Public History from New York University, Doctorate in American History from New York University |
| Known For | Historian, Activist, Producer, Former Wife of Robert Redford |
| Spouse(s) | Robert Redford (1958-1985), George Burrill (2002-Present) |
| Children | Scott, Shauna, James, and Amy Redford |
| Career Highlights | Founding Director of Clio Visualizing History, Inc.; Producer of "The State of Marriage," "American Experience," and "The Mike Douglas Show"; Commissioner for United Nations International Year of the Child; Board Member for U.S. Committee for UNICEF and National Audubon Society. |
| Activism | Advocacy for the environment, women's rights, and energy conservation; founder of Consumer Action Now (CAN) |
| Professional Affiliations | Appointed to national organizations and committees focusing on women, children, history, and the environment. |
| Other Notable Information | Received an honorary doctorate of science from Pratt Institute. |
| Reference Website | Wikipedia |
Van Wagenen's life has been marked by a remarkable blend of intellectual pursuits and unwavering commitment to social causes. Her educational journey led her to earn a doctorate in American history from New York University. This academic foundation provided a solid basis for her future endeavors. She is also known for her work in the film industry and is recognized for her contribution as a producer, with credits including "The State of Marriage" (2015), "American Experience" (1988), and "The Mike Douglas Show" (1961). These projects demonstrate her ability to engage with historical narratives and bring them to a wider audience.
Beyond her academic and professional achievements, van Wagenen has dedicated herself to various causes. Her work on behalf of women, children, and the environment reflects a deeply ingrained sense of social responsibility. She served as a commissioner for the United Nations International Year of the Child, a board member for the U.S. Committee for UNICEF, and a board member for the National Audubon Society. These roles underscore her commitment to advocating for vulnerable populations and environmental conservation.
Born into a Mormon family in Provo, Utah, van Wagenen's upbringing instilled in her a sense of community and a drive to make a positive impact. This early influence shaped her into a socially conscious individual who believed in advocating for causes related to the environment, energy conservation, and women's rights. Her diverse interests and experiences demonstrate her ability to adapt and contribute to various fields, reflecting a life lived with purpose and passion.
Her marriage to actor Robert Redford, which lasted for 27 years, further intertwined her life with the world of entertainment. The couple had four children together: Scott, Shauna, James, and Amy Redford. However, their life together wasn't without its challenges. The loss of their son Scott to sudden infant death syndrome at just two months old undoubtedly left a profound mark.
In 1995, van Wagenen co-founded Clio Visualizing History Inc. with the historian Jeanne Houck. This company was created with the specific goal of raising awareness about the history of women and making historical information more accessible to the general public. This initiative highlights her dedication to using history as a tool for education and empowerment.
Van Wagenen's career includes her involvement in producing several films, including "Miss America: A Documentary Film," which aired on the PBS series American Experience in 2002. Her professional pursuits reflect her commitment to telling compelling stories and sharing them with a broad audience. Her contributions to the entertainment industry, combined with her activism and historical work, showcase her ability to make a significant impact in multiple spheres.
In 1970, van Wagenen co-founded Consumer Action Now (CAN), a non-profit educational organization. This organization demonstrates her early commitment to consumer protection and educating the public about important issues. These efforts emphasize her long-standing dedication to social justice and empowerment.
Van Wagenens story is one of personal and professional evolution. Her life provides an example of how one can successfully integrate diverse interests, academic pursuits, and social activism. Her dedication to making a difference, her resilience in the face of adversity, and her commitment to education and advocacy make her a truly remarkable individual. She is a woman of many passions, a historian, an activist, and a producer, all rolled into one. Her life, with all its complexities and achievements, continues to be a source of inspiration.
After her divorce from Robert Redford, Lola van Wagenen found happiness again, marrying George Burrill on July 17, 2002. This second marriage marks another chapter in her life, demonstrating her ability to embrace new beginnings and build meaningful relationships. Her life, from Provo, Utah, to the forefront of social and historical endeavors, has been a testament to her unwavering spirit and dedication.
Lola van Wagenens achievements reflect her dedication to multiple areas of work. She consistently balances her personal life with her professional commitments. Her ability to adapt and excel in various roles, her commitment to social causes, and her resilience in the face of personal challenges make her an inspiring figure.
Van Wagenen's commitment to making a difference extends beyond her professional pursuits. Her work with various organizations and committees focusing on women, children, history, and the environment demonstrates her passion for advocacy. She uses her platform to champion causes she believes in, further illustrating her multifaceted approach to life.
Lola van Wagenen's life story offers a powerful example of how one individual can navigate different fields, pursue personal passions, and make a lasting impact on the world. Her story is not only a testament to her resilience and intellectual curiosity but also a call to action for others to engage in their own communities and pursue causes they believe in. Lola van Wagenen's legacy is one of dedication, passion, and a lifelong commitment to making the world a better place.
Her impact is multi-faceted, touching on education, activism, and entertainment, thereby creating a legacy that will resonate for generations to come. Her dedication to her work and her unwavering spirit continue to be a source of inspiration.
