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Community College of Rhode Island
What Ever Happened To...
Professor Dwight Decker
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Ever wonder what happened to a great CCRI teacher, administrator or student who left a lasting impression on you? This article kicks off what we hope will be a series of articles on individuals who helped shape the fabric of our college through their teaching innovation and excellence, their forward-thinking contributions to the college's long-term success, and their achievements in their career and community.
In 1966, as the community college movement was undergoing tremendous growth throughout the U.S., a young faculty member was beginning to make his mark in education at CCRI in a career that ultimately spanned more than 33 years. Dwight Decker fondly recalls his time at the college and in particular, “the dedication of the faculty and how they went the extra mile for students.” Decker retired in 1999, and since then, he continues to utilize his teaching skills in helping people through his volunteer work with several community organizations.
CCRI was just celebrating its two-year anniversary in Providence in 1966, and total faculty numbered about 88. “Everyone knew each other,” Decker said. “The challenge then, as it is today, was to motivate students.”
In addition to his work as a professor in the physics and physical science department, Decker served as coach of the women’s softball team in 1973 and 1974, the first time that the team was able to complete the entire schedule. Decker was known for a never-ending repertoire of jokes, and acquaintances were challenged daily to come up with the latest one-liner.
Decker also recalled his collaboration with Ed Madonna, now chairman of the Mathematics Department, but back then, “just a young, eager teacher taking on the world,” according to Decker. They partnered in creating innovative faculty development programs on learning objectives and designing exams which were created to help faculty become more successful in the learning process.
Since his retirement, both Decker and his wife Charlotte have been actively involved in the South Providence Neighborhood Ministries. He tutors students in kindergarten through grade 10, and Charlotte teaches cooking to youngsters. He also volunteers at Roger Williams Park Zoo, and sings in the choir at the Church of the Transfiguration in Cranston and in the University Glee Club in Providence.
When not volunteering, Decker spends considerable time with his children and grandchildren. His daughter Margaret Connell is an associate professor of English at CCRI, and has two children, Sean 14 and Elizabeth 10. His son Kirk is an electrical engineer at John Hopkins University and he has 8-year-old twins, Kyle and Mia.
Decker and his wife get away from the cold New England weather and travel to Myrtle Beach, S.C. for a couple of months each winter.
Decker continues his association with CCRI as a member of the Retirees Organization. Recently, he also participated in the Alumni Association’s Society of the Knights ceremony where he nominated Rev. Gary Lemery (’70) for professional achievement, community service and service to the college.
When asked whether he wanted to offer some thoughts to his friends and acquaintances at CCRI, Decker replied, “Keep doing what you’re doing and maintain faith in yourself. Your guidance and mentoring will help students achieve success.”
If you know of subjects for future “What ever happened to” articles,
contact Dennis Moore at
dwmoore@ccri.edu.
