Richard W. Burkhardt facts for kids

Richard Wellington Burkhardt (born May 18, 1918 – died March 4, 2014) was an important leader at Ball State University. He served as the 8th President of the university from 1978 to 1979. Before becoming president, he held many other key roles at Ball State for nearly 20 years.

Who Was Richard Burkhardt?

Richard Burkhardt was known for his long career in education. He spent many years helping Ball State University grow. He was also a history expert and loved teaching.

Early Life and Education

Richard Burkhardt was born on May 18, 1918. His hometown was Newton, Massachusetts. He went to Knox College and earned his first degree in 1939. Later, he continued his studies at Harvard University. He received his doctorate degree from Harvard in 1945.

A Long Career at Ball State

Before coming to Ball State, Richard Burkhardt worked at Syracuse University. There, he was in charge of teacher training. In 1957, he joined Ball State University. He became the dean of the Teachers College. At that time, the Teachers College was the only college at Ball State.

In 1961, he took on more responsibilities. He became the acting dean for the Division of Sciences and Humanities. Soon after, he was named the vice president for instructional affairs. This job was later called "provost." He held this very important position for almost 20 years. As provost, he helped manage all the teaching and learning at the university.

Becoming President

During the 1978–1979 school year, Richard Burkhardt served as the acting president of Ball State University. This was a big role, leading the entire university.

After Being President

Even after his time as president, Richard Burkhardt stayed involved. He continued to teach history classes. He specialized in modern European history. In 1980, he returned to the history department full-time. He was a "distinguished service professor." He kept teaching until he retired in 1985.

Even in retirement, he loved to do research. He worked with James K. Danglade on a book. It was called Sixty Years of Outreach and Public Service. This book was about how Ball State helped the community. It was published in 1985. In 1991, he published another book. This one was called Eliza Julia Flower: Letters of an English Gentlewoman. He wrote it with Janet Walker.

A Building Named in His Honor

To honor his many contributions, a building at Ball State was named after him. Science Hall, which is one of the oldest buildings on Ball State's campus, became the Burkhardt Building.

Richard Burkhardt passed away on March 4, 2014, in Muncie, Indiana.