IN MEMORIAM
Richard B. Sodikow: A Life Well-Lived by James M. Copeland
On May 4, 2014, the speech and debate community mourned the loss of Mr. Richard B. Sodikow, beloved coach and mentor from New York. Below, Mr. Copeland pays tribute to his colleague and friend.
R
ichard’s favorite author
cast (aide de camp Robert Levinson,
William Shakespeare
adviser Kirby Chin, longtime
wrote, “The heavens
companion Ann Shapiro, and
themselves blaze forth the death
poet Brother John McGrory, who
of princes.”
chronicled Richard’s adventures in
Make no mistake, Richard B.
double dactyl verse). In the chorus
Sodikow was indeed a prince:
were a motley group of fools and
Shakespeare scholar, New York
foils who kept Richard aggravated
State Teacher of the Year,
and amused—one of whom was I.
conversant in several languages,
To all of us in the troupe, Richard
renowned coach of debate
dispensed wit, advice, admonitions,
champions. His many honors
arguments, and critiques. It was
include the Barkley Forum Key, a
they have their exits and their
a privilege to play a small part in
rare seventh coaching Diamond,
entrances; and one man in his time
Richard’s life—and what a life it
and election to the National
plays many parts.” That was fine
was!
Speech & Debate Association Hall
with Richard, as long as he played
of Fame.
the leading role. Like Sheridan
scientist, Richard’s love was the
Whiteside, “The Man who Came to
English language. He was a popular
the Bard of Avon, “and all the men
Dinner,” Richard stood center stage,
and award winning teacher and had
and all the women merely players:
surrounded by a loving supporting
no equal at the use of English. In an
“All the world’s a stage,” wrote
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Rostrum | SUMMER 2014
Although he was trained as a