To speak of Professor Emeritus Robert C. Hansen, Ph.D., is to reflect on three decades of laughter, birthday songs, long hours dedicated to serving generations of students, and versatile talents that promoted the performing arts and historic preservation. Hansen passed away on Oct. 20.
“He was a great colleague — smart, dedicated, imaginative, and very funny!” says College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Dean Emeritus Timothy Johnston.
In his 14 years as CAS associate dean, he oversaw curriculum development and freshman seminars. He was key in creating the College’s first online program: the B.A. in Liberal and Interdisciplinary Studies program, which gave many nontraditional students a fresh chance to finish their college degree.
Read more about his work with the College of Arts and Sciences.
One of Hansen’s greatest loves was the stage. He played a pivotal role in shaping the College of Visual and Performing Arts’ (CVPA) School of Theatre, serving as its chair for 12 years and leading it to accreditation. He taught extensively in stage production and theater history. A collection of 10,000 donated works bear his name in CVPA’s Robert C. Hansen Performing Arts Collection.
Read more about his work with the College of Visual and Performing Arts.
