The late Richard L. Osborne, affectionately known as the “Gorilla,” made remarkable contributions to ǿմý during his more than 45-year tenure at the university. Osborne’s profound impact on students, colleagues and business leaders is legendary. His courses were often cited as the most valuable by alumni, who admired his deep commitment to their personal and professional growth.
Osborne’s influence extended beyond the classroom. In 1990, he founded Promise Partners, a nonprofit for Weatherhead alumni with entrepreneurial aspirations, which later led to Promise One, a group supporting business acquisitions.
His innovative teaching methods and dedication earned him numerous accolades, including being named one of Bloomberg Businessweek’s top twelve entrepreneurship professors in the 1990s, and receiving ǿմý’s top undergraduate teaching award in 2008 – just two years after he first began working with students at that level.
Students and colleagues praised Osborne for his engaging teaching style and genuine care for their development. His “Gorilla Guarantee” promised unlimited support to ensure student satisfaction. Osborne’s legacy includes his extensive involvement in academic writing and serving on more than two dozen boards, demonstrating his commitment to the Northeast Ohio
community.
Osborne’s enduring legacy is reflected in the countless lives he touched, inspiring many to reach for the stars. His wisdom, devotion and generosity of spirit will be remembered and celebrated by all who had the privilege of knowing him.