The Rice University Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering is celebrating the career of Richard P. Massey, who has selflessly contributed his time, expertise, passion and energy to teaching the next generations of electrical engineers.

Since 1989, Dick has taught key foundational courses at Rice, including Advanced Electronic Circuits, Electronic Circuits, Power Electronic Circuits, Electromagnetic Interference/Compatibility, Wireless Electronics, Biomedical Instrumentation, and Introduction to the Physical Sciences.

“When I first came to Rice, my motivation was a pay-back for the excellent tuition-free education I had received, which led to a long and productive first career at Bell Labs. As time marched on, the motivation evolved into a more focused commitment to teach fundamental and basic concepts, which tend to get ignored, because they are perceived to be boring,” Dick says.

A native Texan, Dick graduated from Rice University, B.A., 1953, B.S.E.E., 1954, and embarked upon a successful 35-year career at AT&T Bell Laboratories in New York and New Jersey, advancing from design engineer to Member of Technical Staff and Senior Engineering Manager for several groups -- Power Circuits and Materials, Power Components and Materials, DC/DC Electronic Power Conversion, and the Military Apparatus Group. Dick earned an M.S. E.E. at Columbia University in 1962 while at AT&T.  As a visiting professor on loan from AT&T Bell Laboratories, Dick taught electronics, network theory, power electronics, electromagnetic compatibility, and associated laboratory courses for 2 years, before joining Rice as a lecturer. “The most memorable moments occur when students make the connection between theory taught in class and the real world taught in the laboratory,” he recalls.

An IEEE Senior Member and holder of numerous patents in electronic power conversion and semiconductor pulse modulator circuits, Dick is an avid Rice Athletics fan, devoted supporter of the Shepherd School of Music, and a Will Rice College associate.  

The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering faculty, students, staff and friends will honor Dick Massey and his wife, Barbara, Friday, April 20, 5:00 p.m., Rice University, Duncan Hall.  Dick and Barbara plan to travel, enjoy their children and grandchildren, and continue their involvement in a variety of volunteer activities.