Richard Fountain

UWF degree and year of graduation:
BA, Accounting, 1970

Why did you choose to attend UWF?
I would like to say that after a diligent search, that I selected UWF. In reality, my decision was one of economics. The University was here and best of all affordable.

What were your goals as a student?
I wanted to finish college and practice accounting. At the time, I was married with a child and I viewed a college education as essential to provide a better life for me and my family.

What is your best memory from your days at UWF?
Dr. Committe standing in front of the classroom asking the class “what’s the difference between Harvard and UWF?” He indicated it was “…between our ears…” That it was up to the students to take advantage of the educational opportunities West Florida offered. I appreciated how he took a young student and provides a role model of what I could be. He offered encouragement on a daily basis. He taught his students to seize each opportunity that came their way.

Who was your favorite professor and why?
My favorite professors were Dr. Tom Committee and Mr. Phillip Momberger. Dr. Committee was a role model for those of us hoping to enter the accounting field. Much of my future life was made possible by his teaching, nurturing and mentorship.

Mr. Momberger, who taught Advanced Composition, was one of the finest men I have ever met. I recall receiving an F on my first writing assignment in his class. He indicated that I “was a functioning illiterate” and to see him immediately. After learning that I was not an English major but rather an unprepared Accounting student, he not only agreed to teach me as such but also seemed to enjoy going out of his way to do it. Some of my fondest memories of UWF are of his patience and concern and the time spent with him. Through a directed study, he taught me writing basics and how to write briefs. That experience prepared me for law school. Through the unselfish act of this kind man, I gained a real appreciation for writing. There will certainly be a special place in Heaven for this man some day.

What do you do now?
I have my own law firm and dabble in real estate. I am writing a book about Pensacola High School, which has the oldest football program in Florida. For this research, I have utilized the UWF library special collections. Librarian Dean DeBolt, Chairman of the Special Collections at the UWF library has been of tremendous assistance. The University and the citizens of Northwest Florida are truly blessed to have this wonderful man and his assistant Katrina. Several students in the Public History masters program have been very helpful throughout this process. Also, I’m finishing a novel.

How did UWF help you progress to this point?
Any success that I may have enjoyed is a direct result of the quality education and opportunities to mature to manhood that UWF provided. Thanks to UWF, I was well prepared for law school and life as an adult.

Outside of working, what activities and organizations are you currently involved in and what are your hobbies?
I currently serve as one of twenty eight governors for the National American Red Cross Board. I have served as President of the Mississippi Opera, the New Stage Theatre in Jackson, Mississippi, and Chairman of the Make a Wish Foundation of Mississippi and Central Mississippi Chapter of the American Red Cross. Currently I serve as president of the Greater Jackson Arts Council and President Elect of The Community Foundation of Greater Jackson. For almost twelve years I have had the pleasure of serving as member of Jackson City Planning Board, several of those as Vice Chairman.

How do you stay connected to UWF?
Thanks to Dr. Ed Ranelli, one of my former professors, I have the privilege of serving on the UWF College of Business Advisory Council. I am also honored to have served on the University of West Florida Foundation board in the past. Currently I am a member of the Creating Great Futures Steering committee and work specially on the Argos Scholars committee. My son Cleaveland attends UWF and I have a great sense of pride that he chose my alma mater.

What advice do you have to current and future UWF students?
Avail yourself of the opportunities the University of West Florida provides. Take advantage of all learning opportunities, and get to know your professors because they are wonderful mentors. They taught me as much outside the classroom as they did in it.

What quality makes UWF special or unique?
There are many, but highlights would include accessibility to university administration, wonderful resource centers, top notch faculty and a high quality education.

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