University at Buffalo: Reporter

Memorial service, concert Nov. 12 will honor Robert H. Rossberg

By MARY BETH SPINA
News Services Editor

A memorial service, concert and reception honoring Robert H. Rossberg, who served the University at Buffalo for 40 years before his death on May 5, will be held at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 12, in Slee Hall on the UB North Campus.

Rossberg, who retired in 1994, was Distinguished Professor Emeritus in the Department of Counseling and Educational Psychology. A former vice president for academic affairs, he had held numerous administrative positions at UB during his career.

He also was the producer and host of several popular jazz shows that aired on WBFO-FM 88.7, the National Public Radio affiliate operated by UB.

Rossberg's nationally syndicated program, "The Sound of Swing," featuring the Big Band era, continues to air via archival tapes from 10-11 a.m. Sundays on WBFO.

In 1994, Rossberg received the UB President's Medal for "signal and extraordinary service to the university." The Newman centers at UB this fall posthumously honored him with their first Father Raymond Murray Campus Ministry Award.

Robert (Bert) Gambini, WBFO music director, will officiate at the memorial program. Speakers will include UB President William R. Greiner, Provost Thomas E. Headrick and Jennifer Roth, WBFO general manager.

A musical tribute to Rossberg will be offered by the Amherst Saxophone Quartet and the UB Jazz Ensemble, directed by Sam Falzone.

The service will open and close with Rossberg's signature themes, "It Don't Mean A Thing If It Ain't Got That Swing" and "I Let A Song Go Out of My Heart," recorded by Ivie Anderson and the Duke Ellington Orchestra.

Memorial contributions, which are tax deductible, may be made to The Robert H. Rossberg Fund. Checks, payable to the UB Foundation, Inc., may be sent to the UB Graduate School of Education, 367 Baldy Hall, Buffalo, N.Y. 14260.

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