Dr. Richard J. Thompson, Jr.

Richard (Rick) Thompson grew up in central Florida and attended Polk Community College (A.A.), the University of Florida (B.S.), and Penn State University, completing a Ph.D. in Astronomy & Astrophysics. After graduate school he was on the faculty of McMurry University in Abilene, TX, achieving the tenured rank of Professor of Physics. While at McMurry he led the rebirth of the Physics program (as department chair) and oversaw its growth into a very successful program. Rick’s areas of scholarship have included both space-based (X-ray and Ultraviolet) and ground-based (Radio, Infrared, and Optical) astrophysics research utilizing NASA satellites and telescopes in New Mexico, Arizona, and Hawaii. His research has also involved Physics and Astronomy pedagogy and a book on a critical technological innovation in radio communications during World War II.

In 2005, Rick made the move to academic administration, taking the position of dean of the School of Mathematics and Sciences at The College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY. During his time at Saint Rose he led the development of several new degree programs such as Bachelor’s of Geology, Biochemistry, and Forensic Psychology, and a Master’s of Social Work. In 2017 Rick became the founding dean of the School of Natural Sciences and Allied Health (and later the School of Arts and Sciences) at Cabrini University, just outside Philadelphia, PA. As dean Rick led the development of programs in Public Health, Nursing, and a fully on-line Master’s in Data Science. In 2023, Rick joined New Mexico Tech as the associate vice president for academic affairs. As such, he led their recent reaffirmation of accreditation process which concluded with a successful site visit in March, 2025. He also helped strengthen the processes for annual student learning outcomes assessments and periodic program reviews.

Over the years Rick has been involved in such organizations as the Audubon Society and Scouting, serving as president of a local Audubon chapter and helping to lead both Cub Scout and Boy Scout troops. He also chaired an educational foundation and served on the board of directors of the Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce in Albany, NY. Rick enjoys cooking, music (both playing and listening), hiking, and birdwatching. He is married with three adult sons.