After 32 years of service to Mary Washington, Associate Vice President for Student Affairs & Dean of Student Life Cedric Rucker is retiring in May 2022. Cedric graduated in 1977 from John Marshall High School in Richmond. He is recognized as the first African-American residential male to graduate from Mary Washington. He received a BA in sociology from Mary Washington in 1981 and a master's degree from UVA in 1983. He returned to Mary Washington in 1989 to begin a decades-long career in student life. He is known around campus for his bowties, sweaters, annual Winnie the Pooh costume, his scooter, and his unique laugh. He has been a mentor to many and has become a central figure during commencement ceremonies.
Through the years, Cedric has received numerous community honors, including:
- 2020 – Appointed by the Speaker of the House of Delegates of the Commonwealth of Virginia to the House Ethics Advisory Panel
- 2019 - Appointed by the Governor to the Commonwealth Transportation Board
- 2019 – Named to the Richmond Public Schools Black History Month Influential List
- 2017 – Recognized by NASPA with its Region III Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Award
- 2016 - Named a Living Legacy by Richmond Public Schools
- 1998 – Appointed by the Governor to the Virginia Board of Medicine
As a Mary Washington alumnus, Cedric has actively participated in numerous network events, reunions, and annual Devil/Goat Day events.
- 1987 – Recognized with the Outstanding Young Alumnus Award at Mary Washington
In honor of Cedric's upcoming retirement as a much-beloved administrator and for his loyal service as an engaged alumnus, the UMW Alumni Association is offering a dollar-for-dollar match – up to $5,000 – for gifts to the new Cedric B. Rucker ’81 S.O.S. Endowment. Funds from this endowment in “Support of our Students,” will be used as needed to support students with unexpected and life-altering emergencies.
