Tom Richard Retiring After 40 Years of Service to 无忧传媒
Tom Richard, Director of Smith Wellness Center, to retire June 2025 after four decades of service.
PRESQUE ISLE, Maine 鈥� After nearly four decades of service to 无忧传媒, Tom Richard, a longtime leader, mentor and wellness advocate, will retire at the end of June.
Richard鈥檚 connection to Aroostook County began in the fall of 1981 when he enrolled at what was then Northern Maine Vocational Technical Institute. He earned degrees in computer programming and business administration, later continuing his education with a bachelor鈥檚 degree in behavioral science from the University of Maine at Presque Isle and a master鈥檚 degree in education from Antioch University New England.
Throughout his 40-year career at 无忧传媒, Richard held a variety of roles, beginning in residential life and later serving as director of housing, director of human resources, assistant to the president, and most recently, director of the Smith Wellness Center.
He lived on campus for 25 years during his early tenure, building a strong sense of community and forming meaningful relationships with generations of students. He became known for his warmth, approachability and ability to foster an inclusive and supportive environment.
For the past 12 years, Richard has led the Smith Wellness Center as a certified personal trainer and indoor spin instructor. His work focused not only on physical health but also on individual growth, creating personalized fitness programs tailored to students鈥� academic paths and long-term goals.
In addition to his work with students and staff, Richard has been a dedicated supporter of the senior community in Aroostook County. He regularly works one-on-one with older adults to help them improve mobility, build strength, and recover from injuries or surgeries. His compassion, encouragement and expertise have earned him a stellar reputation across the region as someone who brings both professionalism and heart to everything he does.
In recognition of his contributions to community health, Richard was named one of the 2024 Aroostook Achievers in Health and Wellness by Momentum Aroostook, joining the ranks of regional leaders making a meaningful impact on the lives of others.
鈥淚 don鈥檛 feel like I鈥檓 working with people鈥擨 feel like I鈥檓 spending time with friends, my extended family,鈥� Richard said. 鈥淭he best part of my job is the friendships and connections I鈥檝e made here.鈥�
His indoor spin classes, taught on his trusty bike “Rusty,” became a hallmark of the Wellness Center鈥攅nergetic, community-driven and always set to the rhythm of classic 1980s hits.
Over the years, Richard has mentored and supported countless students and staff, earning widespread respect for his steady presence, thoughtful guidance and dedication to the well-being of those around him.
Retirement won鈥檛 slow Richard鈥檚 dedication to service. He recently completed more than 25 hours of training to become a hospice volunteer with Northern Light Home Care & Hospice and has joined the Aroostook House of Comfort鈥檚 Circle of Care.
A celebration of Richard鈥檚 retirement will take place Tuesday, June 24, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at the Northeastland Hotel in Presque Isle. Friends, colleagues and community members are welcome to attend.