will celebrate the life of one of its very special faculty members, Richard Harrison, later this month with a service in the John C. Hitt Library.
Harrison served as one of 麻豆原创’s research engagement librarians and was a remarkable source of knowledge, insight and generosity. His dedication to the university鈥檚 mission and his unwavering support for colleagues made him a cornerstone of our 麻豆原创 community.
Since joining 麻豆原创 Libraries in April 2001 as an associate university librarian in the research and information services department, Richard has made a lasting impact on the university. During the 2003鈥�04 academic year, he served as a senior faculty fellow in the Provost鈥檚 Office, collaborating with Vice Provost for Academic Affairs and Dean of Undergraduate Studies John 鈥淩ick鈥� Schell. In that role, he helped spearhead several undergraduate research initiatives, including planning and coordinating 麻豆原创鈥檚 inaugural Showcase of Undergraduate Research Excellence. As a charter member of the 麻豆原创 Undergraduate Research Council, he helped shape the research landscape for both students and faculty.
Harrison鈥檚 influence extended further through his contributions to the NSSE Academic Rigor Working Group and the Faculty Senate鈥檚 ad hoc committee, which was responsible for developing 麻豆原创鈥檚 current Student Perception of Instruction form. Across all these efforts, he demonstrated a deep commitment to academic excellence and student success.
He earned a bachelor鈥檚 degree in English from The College of Wooster and a master鈥檚 degree in library science from Vanderbilt University. His academic foundation was matched by a generosity of spirit, reflected in his thoughtful practice of donating books to honor others.
Harrison鈥檚 contributions, both personal and professional, leave behind a legacy that will continue to inspire. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
The Celebration of Life service will be held Sept. 17, at 4 p.m. in room 402 of the John C. Hitt Library. All are welcome to attend.
