A photo of a man from the waist up. He is standing behind a podium with a microphone on it. Next to him is a white banner with the letter \"B\" on it. The letter is blue with a think orange outline.
Charles Ruch served as dean of the School of the Education and provost during his 19 years at VCU. He later was president of Boise State University. (Photo courtesy of Boise State University)

Feb. 6, 2025

Charles P. Ruch, who served as dean and provost at VCU, dies

Ruch held positions for 19 years at VCU before leaving to become the president of Boise State University in 1993.

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By Laura O’Brien

Charles P. Ruch, Ph.D., former dean of the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Education and provost of the university, died on Feb. 1 at the age of 86.

Ruch's 19-year tenure at VCU was marked by his transformative leadership. He served as associate dean of the School of Education from 1974 to 1976, as dean of the school from 1977 to 1985 and as provost and vice president of academic affairs for the university from 1985 to 1993, shaping VCU’s trajectory as a leading public research university.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Charles P. Ruch, a visionary leader and dedicated educator whose impact on the VCU School of Education endures to this day,” said Kathleen Rudasill, Ph.D., interim dean of the School of Education. “As a former dean and provost, Dr. Ruch believed in the transformative power of education and championed the essential balance of teaching, scholarship and service.”

After leaving VCU, Ruch served as president of Boise State University from 1993 to 2003, leading efforts to expand academic programs and strengthen the university's research initiatives.

As provost at VCU, Ruch helped to revise admissions standards, refine the curriculum, launch new degree programs, court donors and legislators, hire academic leaders and build bridges with the community.

Upon his departure from VCU, President Eugene Trani, Ph.D., told a Boise State publication, “People really trust Chuck. He gets all points of view on the table. Faculty, staff and students feel their views are taken seriously.”

During his tenure as dean at the VCU School of Education, Ruch expanded the school’s programs and strengthened its impact on the community. He helped launch the school’s Rehabilitation Research and Training Center in 1983 with a $451,000 federal grant. Today, RRTC remains a leader in advancing employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, providing vital resources for professionals, individuals with disabilities, and their advocates.

Recognizing his commitment to faculty development and excellence in teaching, the School of Education created the Charles P. Ruch Award for Excellence in Teaching in 1992. This award continues to honor outstanding educators who embody Ruch's dedication to students, his passion for lifelong learning, and a steadfast belief in the power of education to transform lives.