Remembering Rick Iverson, 1959-2012
May 08, 2012
Rick Iverson, a Professor of Human Resource Management at SFU’s Beedie School of Business, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly last Thursday .
Born Roderick Dale Iverson on September 3, 1959, Rick received his PhD in Industrial Sociology from the University of Iowa in 1992, and eventually joined SFU’s Faculty of Business Administration in 2001 from the University of Melbourne. Rick would go on to become an admired and highly-respected scholar, teacher and colleague within the business faculty and across Simon Fraser University, where he leaves an extraordinary academic legacy. He will also be remembered by colleagues for his sensible advice and counsel, brilliant Australian sense of humour and an unmatched enthusiasm for his work.
Rick was an exemplary scholar in every respect. He was a repeat recipient of the Faculty of Business Administration’s TD Canada Trust Distinguished Teaching Award (2011 and 2004) and the Annual Excellence in Research Award for 2005. He was also awarded the 2008 SFU Award for Excellence in Teaching — an award that can only be received once in a faculty member’s academic career at SFU.
In a prolific scholarly career, Rick published over 50 refereed research articles and book chapters. His human resources research was awarded the prestigious Best Convention Paper at the National Academy of Management meetings on three different occasions.
His research interests in HR management, organizations, and workplace issues such as occupational injury, absenteeism, turnover, and change management led him to consult extensively with organizations in Australia, Canada, and the US.
In addition to teaching and research, he was the Director for the SFU Centre for Workplace Health and Safety; and served as Chair of the Appointments Committee to recruit new faculty members to the Beedie School.
Rick is survived by his daughter Amy as well as his partner Shelly, his sister Leeann, his father Arthur and his ex-wife Dianne.
A memorial service for Rick will be held this Saturday, May 12th at 10:30 am at SFU’s West Mall Complex 3rd floor Atrium. Everyone is invited to celebrate Rick’s life with his family and his extended SFU family and friends.