Richard L. Reed

It is with deep sadness the University mourns the passing of Richard L. Reed, professor of art, on January 23, 2009. He was a member of the faculty of the Department of Art from 1964 to 1997. During his tenure on campus he served as associate dean of fine arts from 1973 to 1978, after which he returned to the faculty. He was a professor of photography.

“He was a very hard-working person,” remembers Jay Ludwig, professor of communication, who was dean of the College of Arts and Sciences while Reed served as associate dean of fine arts. “He had everybody’s best interests at heart while still trying to build a program through collaboration. He was instrumental in introducing new media to the department, and was also a good friend.”

“Dick Reed was the type of person who got things done,” adds Alan Lazarus, professor of art, who worked with Reed for many years. “He brought new technology to the department and was instrumental in setting up a color lab for the department. He was always very concerned about students and other faculty, and did his share of the committee work. As dean, he created a sense of cooperation between the other departments in the college: communication, music and theatre. He was a good friend and colleague and contributed a lot to the institution.”

Reed earned a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in art education from Kutztown University, and an Ed.D. from Teacher’s College, Columbia University. He was a former commander and member of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary.