Memorial Resolution of the Academic Staff Assembly
of the University of Wisconsin-Madison

On the death of Barry R. Robinson
Business and Public Relations Manager of University Theatre

Barry Robinson, passed away on April 19, 2005 at the age of 49 very unexpectedly of coronary heart disease. He is survived by his mother, Audrey Robinson, of Gastonia, NC, Dave Schumacher of Minocqua, WI, and many very close friends throughout the United States.

Barry was born and raised in Gastonia, NC. He received a Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Therapy from East Carolina University in May of 1977. In May of 1979 he received his Master of Arts Degree in Business (Arts Administration) from the University of Wisconsin-Madison=s Graduate School of Business.

Before starting work at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Barry was the first Managing Director of the Jefferson Council for the Performing Arts in Jefferson, WI. In 1980 he joined the staff of the University Theatre as Business and Public Relations Manager, the position he held until his death. In his quarter-century at the UW, Barry earned numerous awards including the prestigious Chancellor=s Award for Excellence in Service to the University in 2003. He was elected Chair of the Academic Staff Executive committee. He was also a Chancellor=s Scholar Mentor and a member of the UW Foundations ACreate the Future: Internal Campaign@ committee, along with the WISCAPE Academic Staff Leadership Institute Steering committee and on both the Provost and Dean of Students Search-and-Screen committees. He was an integral part of hundreds of University Theatre productions, and a mentor to dozens of students who learned from him the business and management skills they would need after graduation.

Barry=s commitment to the arts was evident through his work which he enjoyed immensely. One of his greatest personal pleasures came from his long association with the Dane County Cultural Affairs Commission which he presided over as chairman for ten years. He also served six preceding years as a member of the commission=s grants advisory panel. He was an active member of the Madison Civic Center Foundation and served on several Wisconsin Arts Board grant review panels.

Barry=s love of music carried over to his church. He was an organist at the Salem United Church of Christ in Verona, a choir director, and was the founder of their Back Row Chorus, which was renamed The Barry Robinson Chorus just days after his death. His love of other arts could be seen in his personal life. He was a fantastic decorator having worked on decorating many new homes of friends and also designing centerpieces for several weddings. He had a deserved reputation as a sharp dresser. Barry loved traveling, especially to Italy and Las Vegas. He was an excellent cook and shared his favorite recipes with his many friends.

Barry was a confirmed Wisconsinite, but he was a "Southern Gentleman," as well. A man of great courtesy and warmth, devoted to his friends and his professional responsibilities. He laughed easily and was always ready to bring cheer and comfort. Barry=s special presence will be missed by all who knew him.

Respectfully Submitted,

Robert Skloot
Glo Theisen