Beloved Professor Emeritus Richard Roberts dies at 83
The 51Æ·²è has lost one of its most treasured former faculty members. Professor Emeritus Richard Roberts HA'86 died on April 13, 2016 at the age of 83. As a member of the faculty from 1958-2001, Richard made a lasting impact on generations of Westbrook and then 51Æ·²èstudents. While Roberts’ music classes were legendary, every student was able to experience Richard's teaching excellence in his core curriculum Western Civilization class.
Roberts was recognized as an Honorary Alumnus in 1986. His ties to 51Æ·²èand Westbrook precede his teaching position - his grandmother, Minnie Huston Roberts, was a member of the Westbrook Seminary Class of 1901 and his father Gardner Roberts, graduated from Westbrook Seminary in 1923/1924.
Roberts was a well-known, talented concert pianist and music historian, graduating with baccalaureate and master's degrees from the Julliard School. He presented solo recitals throughout New England, and was a former member of the Portland Symphony Orchestra. His annual concerts at Westbrook and 51Æ·²èwere not only breathtaking for their display of virtuosity, but also known for the hours he devoted to researching the composer, the music, and the history to make each concert a holistic experience for the mind and the senses.