On Tuesday, July 26, the ELP, LPS, and other friends and associates gathered at the University of Pennsylvania to celebrate the life of James Riedel who passed away on May 25, 2022, after a long illness.
James came to the ELP in 2001 and served as a Language Specialist, and later as the Business English Programs Coordinator. He then went on to become Associate Director of Programs, and finally, Executive Director of the English Language Programs. During his tenure, he encouraged the development of a variety of innovative programs and courses for the ELP that attracted wide international participation. Throughout James' career at the ELP, he never stopped teaching.
The Celebration of James’ life at Café 58 in Irvine Auditorium brought together family and friends who had known and worked with him in various capacities over the years. Speakers at the memorial included Nora Lewis, Vice Dean, Penn Arts & Sciences, Sarah Grosik, Associate Director of Curriculum and Instruction at the ELP who read a letter from a longtime friend, Gina Keefer, now living in Paris, Jack Sullivan, Director of the ELP, Katie Lozier, a former ELP colleague, Judy Erk and Connie Sams, James’ sisters from Kentucky and Wisconsin respectively, and others who shared stories and memories. While some reminisces may have triggered a tear, it was, in fact, a celebration of a well-lived and accomplished life. James has left friends across the globe who in written tributes also raised glasses in salute.
L-R: Nora Lewis, Donna Tomlinson, Connie Sams, Judy Erk, Jack Sullivan, Sarah Grosik
James Riedel
