Biography:

Gerald F. Reidenbaugh joined the faculty in 1949 after receiving his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in drama, and a Ph.D. in communications. He was made chairman of the drama department in 1967, and was a member of the committee who organized the College of Visual and Performing Arts in 1971. In 1972 he was promoted to assistant dean for administration in the College of Visual and Performing Arts. In 1975 Reidenbaugh was named Associate Dean of the College.

He founded the New Playhouse, a professional summer theater, and shared administrative and artistic assignments at the Syracuse Repertory, the predecessor to Syracuse Stage. His passion for Shakespeare led him to launch a Shakespeare troupe at Salt City Center for the Performing Arts, and directed the Corcoran Shakespeare Company from 1982 to 1989. Reidenbaugh served as adviser to the board of directors for the New York State Community Theatre Association for 20 years.

It must also be noted that he served in WWII and received a Purple Heart. He retired from Syracuse University in 1989 as professor of speech and drama after 40 years of service. He died July 9, 1994 at the age of 69.