Dr. David Richards, Sidney Class of 1973, has followed a distinct and diverse career path. Throughout the years, his focus has centered on service to others, first in law enforcement, then education. Dave received his AAS in Criminal Justice from SUNY Broome in 1981, followed by a BS in Secondary Education, Social Studies, summa cum laude in 1995. He earned an MA in History in 1996, both at SUNY Oneonta. It was at this time that Dave's career took a sharp turn from law enforcement to education. He served as a police officer, sergeant, then detective sergeant in Sidney from 1977 to 1997.
With his focus redirected to education, Dr. Richards served as a high school social studies teacher in Sidney for several years (taking a two-year leave of absence to pursue his doctoral studies), while also completing his CAS in Educational Administration in 2006 at Cortland. He served as an adjunct lecturer at SUNY Oneonta, and at the Maxwell School of Public Affairs at Syracuse University. While completing his PhD requirements, Dave was a teaching assistant, graduate lecturer and graduate assistant for professional development at Binghamton University.
As with his first career, Dr. Richards climbed the educational administration ranks. He directed an innovative program in Sidney designed to deter students from dropping out, and served as dean of students, administrative intern and acting assistant principal, all in the Sidney district. He then became high school principal in Livingston Manor, followed by Deposit. He was appointed superintendent of schools in Oxford in 2012, then moved to Unatego in 2014, where he continues to serve as superintendent.
Dr. Richards' list of awards and service pursuits is extensive. He was named to "Who's Who Among American Teachers" in 2002, received a Doctoral Retention Award in 2002 and a Dissertation Year Fellowship. In 2001, he received the Simphiwe Hlatswayo Award from SUNY as adjunct instructor of the year. He served as president of the Mid-State Athletic Conference for several years, and serves on numerous boards, including the Cullman Center and Catskill Area School Study Council. He also chairs the DCMO Superintendent's Legislative Committee, and has served as a member of the school improvement team and a faculty adviser at SUNY Oneonta's summer orientation.
The common thread from people who have given testament to Dr. David Richards' character is that he is not only intelligent, perceptive and knowledgeable, but shows great compassion and empathy for those who struggle, and an unwavering ability and willingness to step in and support them. To quote a colleague, "I offer him (Dr. Richards) my highest unqualified recommendation to receive this honor."
Dave is married to Julie and they share two children, Mary and Matt.
We are proud to recognize Dr. David Richards as a Wall of Fame honoree.