Richard L. Judd Obituary, New Britain, CT — Dr. Richard L. Judd, President Emeritus of Central Connecticut State University and a respected leader in higher education and emergency medical services, passed away on July 15, 2026, at the age of 89. His death has prompted an outpouring of remembrance from the Central Connecticut State University community, emergency medical professionals, and residents who recognized his decades of service and leadership.
Dr. Judd dedicated much of his life to education, public service, and strengthening the communities he served. He served as the 11th president of Central Connecticut State University from 1996 to 2004, where his leadership helped shape generations of students, faculty members, and community partners. Following his presidency, he remained deeply connected to Central, earning the lasting respect of those who worked alongside him and those whose lives were influenced by his commitment to education.
Central Connecticut State University President Zulma R. Toro shared condolences following Dr. Judd’s passing, remembering him as a visionary leader whose lifetime was devoted to building, teaching, and giving back to the university community he cherished. The university announced that a celebration of life is planned for early September, with additional details to be shared as arrangements are finalized.
Beyond his contributions to higher education, Dr. Judd was widely recognized as a pioneer in emergency medical services. He was one of the visionaries behind the founding of New Britain EMS and played a significant role in advancing EMS education in Connecticut and beyond. He held Connecticut Emergency Medical Services Instructor License 0001 and served as Dean of the Connecticut EMS Instructor Training Program.
Throughout his career, Dr. Judd helped develop the field of emergency medical services through teaching, writing, and leadership. He contributed to EMS educational texts, served as a professor at The American College of Prehospital Medicine, and shared his expertise internationally. His work also included serving as National Education Faculty for the American College of Surgeons’ Advanced Trauma Life Support program, consulting with the Yale New Haven Health Office of Emergency Preparedness, and chairing the Connecticut Emergency Medical Services Advisory Board.
Dr. Judd’s impact on emergency care and education was recognized across the state, including through the naming of Connecticut’s lifetime EMS achievement award in his honor. Colleagues and former students remembered him as a dedicated educator, a thoughtful mentor, and a leader whose influence extended through the many professionals he trained and communities he helped strengthen.
As news of his passing spread, tributes highlighted Dr. Judd’s kindness, fairness, and lifelong dedication to serving others. Former students, university leaders, and emergency medical professionals reflected on the lasting mark he left through his leadership, teaching, and commitment to improving the lives of those around him.
Dr. Richard L. Judd’s legacy will continue through Central Connecticut State University, the emergency medical services professionals he inspired, and the countless individuals impacted by his work. He will be remembered as a remarkable educator, community leader, and visionary whose contributions will remain part of the institutions and people he served.
