Frank Richards — Tropical Disease Fighter A Williams Life

Dr. Frank "Rick" Richards is a world-leading expert on parasitic and tropical infections. He's traveled to some of the poorest and most remote locations of our planet to fight diseases that have harmed millions. During his long tenure at the Carter Center in Atlanta, where he has worked closely with former President Jimmy Carter, Rick played a leading role in the eradication of river blindness from Guatemala. In addition to his career, Rick talks about his experience as a Black student at Williams, his campus activism, and the significant academic and personal challenges he faced during his four years at the College.

00:00 Introduction
00:55 Frank's Early Life and Family Background
01:48 Childhood Experiences of Segregation and Racism
05:34 Activism During High School
08:02 Father's Influence and Life Lessons
09:24 Challenges and Experiences at Williams College
22:35 Activism and Protests at Williams College
26:12 Influence of Professor Joe Harris and Interest in the African Diaspora
30:44 Transition to Medical School and Global Health
33:50 Early Interest in Infectious Diseases
35:33 The Journey to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
36:45 The Fight Against River Blindness
42:40 Challenges Post-Eradication
43:51 Poverty and Global Health
49:06 The Personal Toll of Global Health Work
53:56 Working with President Carter and the Carter Center
01:00:31 Reflections on the 50th Reunion
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Producer: Jon Earle ('09)
Web designer: Kathy Bogan ('75)