Richard Rodgers: A Beloved Advisor and Advocate

Image Sourced from Santa Clara University

Richard Rodgers, a University Advisor at the Drahmann Center, passed away this past weekend. The news was announced in a campus-wide email from President Julie Sullivan. Rodger’s life was a beacon of guidance and support for countless students throughout his tenure at SCU.

Rogers, a passionate advocate for the arts and student support, earned his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. His academic and professional journey was a testament to his dedication. Before joining Santa Clara University in 1999, Richard was an academic advisor and counselor at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and the Massachusetts College of Art. He also taught studio art and art history, with many of his paintings displayed at the Drahmann Center in Kenna Hall.

At Santa Clara University, Rodgers was one of the founding university advisors at the Drahmann Center. He was notably SCU's point of contact for foster youth, a role he embraced with unwavering dedication. He frequently hosted the County Office of Education Foster Youth Initiative, helping foster youth experience college life firsthand. His commitment to supporting students’ academic progress and interpreting university policy and requirements was unparalleled.

Rodgers’journey as a first-generation college student at Bowling Green was challenging, yet it fueled his passion for advising and mentoring students. He often shared his experiences to inspire current first-generation college students, encouraging them to believe in their abilities and seek support from their community.

“Don't doubt that you deserve to be here. Someone saw something special in you and that you can succeed here,“ wrote Rodgers. “Don't be afraid to try new things, take risks, make some mistakes, learn from them.”

A full obituary will be forthcoming