—4— In memoriam: William David Williams, 1922-2008 Emeritus Professor William D. (“Bill”) Williams, born in Weiser, Idaho, on Dec. 5, 1922, died in Portland on Jan. 7, 2008, due to complications from Parkinson’s disease. Bill attended public schools in Weiser and Caldwell. After earning a bachelor of arts degree (1944) at the College of Idaho, he taught for two years at Gilliam County High School in Condon, Oregon. Other post-college employment experience included a brief period of military service, working as a radio station announcer in Nampa, Idaho, followed by newspaper reporting and editing in Condon. In 1948 an entrance scholarship at the Chicago Theological Seminary enabled him to pursue ministerial training and to enter graduate studies in education at the University of Chicago. He completed a bachelor of divinity and master’s degrees in 1950-51. From 1948 to 1954 he held various ministerial appointments at Congregational churches in Indiana and Illinois. Bill launched his higher education professional career at Defiance College in Ohio as the director of development and student personnel offices from 1954 to 1957. From there he went to Eastern Montana College (later Montana State University-Billings) to head admissions and student personnel services offices until 1965, when he came to Portland State as associate dean of Student Affairs. In the latter role he was responsible for overseeing wide-ranging co-curricular student activities and related academic support functions, including orientation, health services, counseling, and disciplinary actions. His distinguished PSU service (1965-1985) coincided with the institution’s transition from an urban college to a major comprehensive university. That growth imposed burdens and strains that affected instructional departments as well as student personnel services, especially during the tumultuous 1960s and 1970s, an era that featured vigorous, organized student activism stemming from anti-war and civil rights movements. Bill’s measured, calm, and thorough responses to complaints earned his colleagues’ respect and inspired student confidence. He played a significant role in devising innovative approaches to meet emerging welfare needs of a growing student body. Ongoing participation in nationwide professional organizations enhanced his contributions to the institution during its formative stage of development. In every respect, Bill earned our gratitude for his meritorious and energetic role in advancing the University’s development at a crucial time in its history. Professor Williams is survived by his spouse, Marie A. (Burgin), whom he married in 1945 at Soda Springs, Idaho, and by their four children. Charles resides in Wisconsin, where he is a computer services manager for a private college; another son, Stewart, and, daughters, Anita and Carolyn, live in Oregon. To these family members, and four grandchildren, our organization extends its heartfelt sympathy and condolences. Family members and friends gathered for a memorial service on Sunday, Jan. 27, in Smith Memorial Student Union. Remembrances should be made to PSU’s Millar Library. —Victor C. Dahl, Professor Emeritus of History RAPS rings in the holidays More than 80 members of RAPS gathered Dec. 18 at the Multnomah Athletic Club for the organization’s annual Holiday Dinner. RAPSters enjoyed conversation, good food, and maybe an adult beverage or two during the event. A clarinet ensemble and a vocal ensemble from Portland State’s Music Department provided entertainment to cap the evening.
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