|
|
| GRESHAM RILEY AWARD RECIPIENT 1999 |
Richard G. Beidleman
Richard "Dick" Beidleman is one of those professors no one
ever forgets. Not only has he left his mark on Colorado College and its
students; he has changed the community of Colorado Springs
dick joined the faculty in 1957 as a professor of biology where he taught
until his retirement in 1988. In the Colorado College tradition, Dick
never really retired and has returned many times to teach biology and
southwest studies. Ask alumni of the 50s, 60s, 70s, and 80s to name their
favorite faculty, and Dick Beidleman's name is sure to appear high on
the list. In 1988 the Burlington Northern Foundation awarded Dick its
Faculty Achievement Award for outstanding teaching. His students would
have awarded it every year.
Many things that today's students and Colorado Springs citizens value
- a commitment to the environment, a love of wild places and a concern
for a livable community - can be traced to Dick's activities as both a
faculty member and a community activist. In his quest to educate the community
about environmental issues, Dick has been known to present over 50 programs
annually to the general public, without any extra compensation. He demonstrated
how to make a difference through his work with the National Park Service
and as a leader on the Colorado State Parks Board. His tireless efforts
on behalf of all living things have been recognized by many national groups
over the years, including a special environmental education citation from
the Garden Clubs of America. In 1987, the City of Colorado Springs named
Beidleman Environmental Center in honor of Dick and his late wife, Reba.
Today's award also recognizes unusual or outstanding commitment to alumni
and the alumni program. Dick has consistently agreed to offer special
programs for alumni. He has led alumni educational tours to the Lesser
Antilles, the Sea of cortez, and other exotic spots. He has even joined
in alumni trips as a participant. When alumni first began visiting the
Baca Campus for a summer alumni college, Dick was there, with his friends
Joe Gordon and Bill Fischer to make the learning adventure exciting, challenging
and fun. The "fearsome threesome" will join forces again in
the summer of 2000 for another alumni college at the Baca.
Forty-three years after his first day at CC, Dick continues his passionate
teaching, changing the lives of his students and challenging them to keep
up with him!
Alumni Awards Main Page |