Robert Rinehart France *52

Retired v.p. of the U. of Rochester [N.Y.], Robert R. France, died Apr. 12, 1998. He was 78. He had battled Parkinson's disease for several years.

He served as a bombardier in the Air Force during WWII, retiring years later from the Air Force Reserve with the rank of lieutenant colonel. He earned his bachelor's from Oberlin College. At Princeton, he earned AM (*50) and PhD (*52) degrees in economics. He remained at Princeton for three years as a member of the economics faculty. In 1956 Robert joined the economics faculty at the U. of Rochester, becoming full professor in 1962. He spent 31 years at Rochester, retiring in 1987. His posts included associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, acting dean of the college, associate provost and v.p. for planning, and director of budgets. At Rochester he showed unusual negotiating skill during the turbulent '60s.

Robert was a labor arbitrator for the American Arbitration Assn., the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, and the New York State Board of Mediation from 1953-79. Several distinguished publications on labor relations are attributable to him as author. His is an enviable legacy in both academe and professional arbitration.

He is survived by his wife, Jean, two daughters, one son, two sisters, and six grandchildren.

The Graduate Alumni