Died: 26-FEB-2017

 

President of Ripon College:

1966 - 1985

 

 

Education

Bachelor's degree (Princeton University)

Master's degree (Yale University)

Ph.D. (University of Pittsburgh)

About me	Details	Memorium

News about William

June 2017

Dr. Bernard Schroder Adams of Colorado Springs, CO, died February 26, 2017. At Ripon he served the ninth president of Ripon College from 1966-85. A graduate of Princeton University, Bernard earned his Master's degree from Yale University and his doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh. Prior to assuming the presidency at Ripon at the age of 38, he served for two years in the United States Air Force and taught English Literature and held a range of administrative responsibilities at Princeton, Pittsburgh, and Oberlin College.

In his nearly two decades at Ripon, Adams continued the expansion and renovation of our campus and supporting the modernization of the curriculum - including the addition of off-campus independent study, self-designed and interdisciplinary programs. He ended his academic career as president of Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO, in 1987. After moving to Colorado Springs in 1988 to be closer to his family, Adams worked as vice-president for Goodwill Industries for several years before retiring.

He served many years as a member of the choir of the Broadmoor Community Church, as well as two years as church moderator. He served on various nonprofit boards, including Colorado Springs Music Volunteers, The Center for Prevention of Domestic Violence (TESSA), and Keep Colorado Springs Beautiful. He also served as an adviser to CASA's and Griffith Centers for Children/CHIN UP'S capital campaigns.

In his nonprofessional life he was a family man first and foremost. He always made time to attend his children's and grandchildren's sporting events. The family has fond memories of camping trips to New England during the early years and hiking, skiing, and rafting adventures after they moved to Colorado.Adams loved playing tennis, especially family doubles. "Bernie Ball," his unique style of tennis, thwarted friends and family alike. Above all, Adams was a kind and loving husband, father, and friend. He always had a willing ear to listen to a college student, faculty member, child, or grandchild. He always had a ready smile. In his last few months, as vascular dementia cast a longer shadow on his life, the two words he never forgot were "thank you."

Survivors include his wife, Natalie Stout Adams (Ripon, 77), a son and a daughter.

About me	Details	Memorium

Statements in Memory of William

Drink to Bernie

President Adams was a very good friend to the House. Tradition in the House is to drink to his memory at all major functions. If you're reading this... Drink to Bernie!

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