The Department has been fortunate to have had many insightful and generous professors over the years. Each brought a wealth of knowledge and true understanding of the fundamental science. They combined it with the ability to teach in an informed, passionate and relatable manner. Two such professors are well known to most alumni Dr. Bob Hodder and Dr. Dick Hutchinson.
Hodder is seen as a bonafide pioneer within the industry. He is also regarded as a truly generous teacher. His vision is to have future generations of geoscientists equipped in both qualitative and quantitative knowledge. Students acquiring a fundamental understanding of how to research, learn and solve problems bridging science, the economy and the sustainability of our species. He continues his focus on this vision through his own teaching in the classroom and in the field.
Hutchinson is known as a visionary scientist. He is held as an incredibly gifted teacher epitomizing all that a professor should be for their students. He has an indelible enthusiasm combined with a broad understanding of the science behind the process of discovery. He capably bridged academia with practical experience for his students. A tireless advocate for his students, he encouraged them to pursue their own visions and theories while leading by example.
Both men worked tirelessly to ensure that practical field experience was an integral part of the learning process. They fostered relationships within the industry. They were strident in their commitment to have every student who wanted a placement be provided with the opportunity to find one.
In honour of this incredible contribution to the Department over the years by both of these men, two new positions have been created, named for each of them: The Robert W. Hodder Chair in Economic Geology and The Richard W. Hutchinson Visiting Industrial Professor in Economic Geology.
Both positions were established thanks to a lead donation by Dr. Keith Barron (PhD ’97). These positions are a fitting tribute to the legacy both men have created and fostered both here at Western and within the industry. The positions will help ensure the legacy of educating exploration geologists in an informative and interactive manner relevant to the needs of the industry will remain entrenched in the DNA of Earth Sciences Department.
