Longtime professor known for dedication to students passes away
Dr. Charles Richardson, professor emeritus of history, passed away on Tuesday, Nov. 30, from complications from a fall after a long battle against cancer.
Richardson joined Rider’s History Department in the fall of 1967. He retired in 2003, but continued teaching part time until the spring of 2010 when he was forced to withdraw for health reasons, according to Dr. Anne Osborne, chair of the History Department.
According to Osborne, Richardson specialized in European intellectual history, modern European history and Middle Eastern history, teaching upper level courses in these areas as well as core world history courses.
Dr. Joseph Gowaskie, a professor in the History Department, reflected on his relationship with Richardson.
“I am deeply saddened by Charlie’s death,” Gowaskie said. “He was a great colleague of mine for 40 years, but more importantly a close friend as well. A person like Charlie only comes along once in a lifetime if you are fortunate. I was fortunate to be his friend.”
According to a statement released by the University on Thursday, Richardson was engaged with his students both in and out of the classroom, making his home the site of awards banquets and picnics for students, faculty and alumni, something also mentioned by Osborne.
“For many years, he and his wife hosted events for students at their home across the street from Rider every spring and fall,” said Osborne. “They were warm, welcoming, generous and hospitable. They really took the students and the department under their wing.”
Dean of Students Anthony Campbell shared his memories of Richardson as well.
“I’ve known him since I’ve been here,” Campbell said. “He had a lovely wit about him. He loved students and he loved Rider. Some of my fondest memories with Dr. Richardson were sitting with him at basketball games and watching him yell at the refs and cheer for the team.”
A memorial service for Richardson will be held on Saturday, Dec. 18, at 11:30 a.m. in the Lawrenceville Presbyterian Church.
Dalton Karwacki
