KINGSTON, R.I. –March 5, 2007—Retired English Professor R. B. Reaves and his wife, Virginia, are heading for sunny New Mexico, but not before the professor’s friends, colleagues, and students celebrate his 40-year teaching career at the University of Rhode Island.
A party is planned for Sunday, March 18 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the University Club, Upper College Road, URI Kingston Campus. Tickets are $25, $20 for students and payable at the door by cash or check. Reservations should be sent to engugrad@etal.uri.edu by March 8. Event planners are active and retired professors: Stephen Barber, Carolyn Betensky, Sally Burke, Lois Cuddy, Celest Martin, Sue Vaughn and Jean Walton.
Reeves taught a broad range of English classes, especially those focused on 18th century British literature. He published articles on Swift, Defoe, and 20th century writers Dorothy Sayers and George Orwell.
In recent years, Reaves developed his passion for European and American film into innovative film courses for English and film media students.
People who are unable to attend, may send their best wishes or share Reaves story by emailing sburke@uri.edu. People unable to attend, may contribute to the gift, by sending a check should be made out to the URI Foundation and sent to Jean Walton, chair, Department of English, Upper College Road, URI, Kingston, RI 02881.