Richards
MIDDLETOWN – Former SUNY Orange President Dr. William Richards died on Sunday, college officials said. He passed away at his home in Aurora, Colorado. He was 72.
Richards was the seventh president and served the college from 2003 to 2015 when he retired.
“Dr. Richards was a respected educator and a visionary leader who devoted his professional life to the advancement of higher education,” said College President Dr. Kristine Young. “He advocated for students, encouraged faculty and staff to innovate, and built great trust with many groups and organizations within our community.”
Young noted that Richards “ushered the college through great growth during his 12-year tenure, particularly the development of the Newburgh campus and facilities improvements at the Middletown campus.”
On a personal note, Young said she “will always appreciate his warmth, generosity and professionalism. Prior to my start date at the college, he gave freely of his time, experience and candor in an effort to smooth my transition.”
“I was saddened to learn about the passing of Bill Richards over the weekend,” said County Executive Steven Neuhaus. “Dr. Richards was a wonderful ambassador for SUNY Orange and cared deeply about the college.” Neuhaus said the college “certainly benefited from his innovative leadership and ability to connect with people.”
