It is with a very heavy heart that I inform the campus community of the passing of Richard Spence on the morning of Thursday, Sept. 21.
Rich served as the Coordinator for Student Services at the Educational Opportunity Center from February 1996 until his retirement in September 2016. Over his two decades at the center, Rich contributed greatly to enhancing the student experience in recruitment, enrollment and counseling. Rich’s accomplishments were many and included his role in leading the EOC through the conversion of its student records management system to a statewide Banner system hosted at SUNY. Through his direct efforts, the EOC became a TASC (formerly GED) testing site which allowed the center to reintroduce this much needed service to Rensselaer County. Rich was the recipient of merit recognition awards in both 2001 and 2011. Following his retirement in 2016, Rich remained committed to the EOC and continued to devote his efforts to ensuring the center’s success by working on a part-time temporary basis to complete numerous special projects. Each and every day, Rich worked in loyal and dedicated service to the EOC, its students and his colleagues.
Medically, Rich fought a valiant fight over the last year. His strong spirit, will and determination were with him until the end. These qualities served him well over his many years and most especially in these final days.
Details of arrangements are unknown at this time but will be communicated when available.
Those of us at the EOC, HVCC, and SUNY who worked closely with Rich mourn the loss of our dear colleague and friend. Together we unite in expressing our appreciation for all Rich has done for the EOC, its students and each of us.
Published: Fri, 22 Sep 2017 11:58:51 +0000 by l.marion