John Richardson ’88

John Richardson ’88

Balancing a full-time dual major in chemistry and environmental science with a part-time laboratory job might be a formula for disaster. Fortunately, John Richardson '88 is a master at balancing equations.

Richardson earned an associate's degree in chemical technology and toxic waste management before entering Towson in 1986. Serendipity intervened two years later, when Richardson's employer decided to sell the business and the freshly minted graduate needed a job. He bought the facility located in Catonsville, Maryland, and founded a certified environmental analytical testing laboratory. Today, Phase Separation Science is thriving, and Richardson proudly counts other Towson alumni among his company's 18 employees.

Richardson deepened his Towson connection in 2013 after meeting former President Maravene Loeschke '69/'71 at an alumni event. "Realizing that almost 25 years have passed since graduation caused me to put my years at TU in perspective," he says. He made a Founders Society-level annual gift in memory of two of his most cherished professors-Alan Wingrove and William Pelham. "Their dedication made it easy for me to honor them and to help keep their life's work continual and remain meaningful."

Richardson also joined the Tower Light Society by naming the Towson University Foundation as a beneficiary of his life insurance policy, a simple act with the potential for enduring benefits. "Towson University was an integral part of my life," he says, "and giving back to Towson may help future leaders in the many disciplines of study that the university has to offer. This makes our immediate area a better place to live; it makes our state stronger. And, it helps our country realize the potential of the great minds of our future.

"I encourage my fellow alumni to rekindle the TU fire that burns inside us all. As you consider the impact TU had on your life, you may find that, as I did, Towson is a significant brick in your wall. Although it's often overlooked, including the university in your estate plan can be a profound gesture."