2018

Bill Richardson, BA'69, BEd'71 

Bill Richardson, BA’69, BEd’71, was the recipient of the 2018 St. Thomas University Alumni Association Award for Service. 

Richardson is perhaps best known in the STU community as the voice of the Thomists. He has been a member of the group for over four decades and continues to sing with them today.

“Throughout the years, the Thomists have entertained thousands of enthusiastic supporters in many communities, and the Orchestra has served as a readily identifiable icon for the university,” wrote Richardson’s nominator. 

“In his capacity as the lead singer of the Thomists, Bill has become a much recognized goodwill ambassador for St. Thomas University.”

He has sung at STU convocations since 1969, as well as at many other STU functions over the years – an inspiring, ongoing commitment to his alma mater.

“The Thomists have an extensive repertoire and have made several recordings that are undoubtedly enjoyed by many fans in the comfort of their own homes,” his nominator added. “St. Thomas University’s outreach has been significantly enhanced by Bill Richardson and the Thomists, and the Orchestra has become part of the cultural fabric of St. Thomas University.”

Richardson’s commitment to STU goes beyond music. As a student, he was Harrington Hall President, sat on residence house committees, and was a member of the Campus Police. Since graduation, he regularly attends regional alumni events and is a supporter of STU Alumni Weekend. Through the years, he has also volunteered his time by sitting on various committees that helped to serve the alumni community, while balancing a family life and successful career as an educator.

“Bill Richardson would acknowledge that St. Thomas University has been good to him, but I would also suggest that Bill Richardson has been good to and for St. Thomas University, and therefore, I believe he is a fitting candidate this award,” his nominator said.

The St. Thomas University Alumni Association Award for Service recognizes the exemplary engagement of St. Thomas alumni in helping advance the aims and objectives of the Alumni Association and the overall reputation of the university amongst members of the Association. Past recipients include Harold DeCourcey, BA’69, CSW’70; Pam Harquail, BA’75, BT’75; and Greg Byrne, BA’84.