Red Deer College is honouring one of their long time educators with an original title that’s being handed out for the first time at RDC.

Dr. Torben Anderson, RDC’s Associate Vice President Academic, University Transition, is RDC’s first-ever recipient of the title Professor Emeritus.

This new title will be awarded to faculty members who make outstanding contributions in support of students and RDC. This type of honour is a tradition among many universities, so it’s fitting that Dr. Anderson be the first recipient, given his work on the College transitioning into a University.

“I am completely surprised, appreciative and humbled to receive this honour from RDC,” says Dr. Andersen. “As I retire, I am delighted that I will be able to stay connected with my colleagues, the outstanding educators at RDC, who do so much for the students and communities of central Alberta.”

Starting his career at RDC in 1982 as the Economics instructor, he stayed in that role for the next 22 years. Since then, he’s held various senior leadership roles, including Chairperson of Humanities and Social Sciences, Dean of several Schools and Divisions, and Interim Vice President Academic.

“This special designation is reflective of Dr. Andersen’s outstanding record of teaching with the many students he taught, his scholarly contributions to economics, and his collaborative spirit and strategic leadership at the College. I would like to thank Torben for his unwavering service to our students and to our institution’s pursuit of achieving university status,” says Dr. Peter Nunoda, RDC President.

The status of Professor Emeritus was awarded to Dr. Anderson during his virtual retirement announcement celebration, which took place on June 19th.

“I wish Torben, his wife Sheila, and his family well as he enters the next chapter of his life. But we will always enjoy welcoming him back to engage with his colleagues and our students any time he wishes to do so,” says Dr. Nunoda.