UMES Alum Dr. Earl S. Richardson Dies at 81

PRINCESS ANNE, Md. – The University of Eastern Shore (UMES) is remembering Morgan State University President, Earl S. Richardson, who recently passed away at the age of 81.

Richardson, a Westover native, graduated from what was then Maryland State College in 1965, receiving a B.A. degree in social science. He was the first member of his family to attend and graduate college.

Following a four-year stint in the U.S. Air Force, Richardson returned to UMES and served in several roles, including director of career planning and placement, acting director of admissions and registration, and executive assistant to Chancellor William P. Hytche. He was also a part-time lecturer.

Following his time at UMES, Richardson was named assistant to the president of the University of Maryland system in 1982. He later served as Morgan State University’s president from 1984 until his retirement in 2010.

Richardson also served as a driving force in a $577 million settlement between Maryland and the state’s four Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The ruling stemmed from a 15-year federal lawsuit that challenged the fundamental history of how the state supported its public institutions of higher education.

“The UMES community is deeply saddened by the loss of Dr. Earl Richardson,” said UMES President Heidi M. Anderson. “His passion for learning and his tireless energy in advocating for Maryland HBCUs and their students truly exemplifies what being a Hawk is truly about.”

Richardson is survived by his wife Sheila, a son, a grandson, and his sister. He also leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. 

A viewing for Dr. Richardson will take place on Friday, Sept. 26, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Ella Fitzgerald Center for the Performing Arts on the campus of UMES, followed by funeral services at the same location on Saturday, Sept. 27, at 11:00 a.m. To view Richardson’s full obituary, click here.