Dean Richard E. and Dr. Gail H. Friedman Fund

A Special Evening Honoring a Remarkable Leader

On March 29th, 2025, ABC hosted a heartfelt and inspiring evening honoring Richard E. “Dick” Friedman, celebrating his 16 years of exceptional leadership as Board President of Activities Beyond the Classroom. 

It was an evening of warm tributes, moving stories, hors d’oeuvres, drinks, and meaningful connections with Cincinnati community leaders, friends, and longtime supporters of ABC. Proceeds benefit the Dean Richard E. and Dr. Gail H. Friedman Fund, continuing Dick’s legacy of making extracurriculars accessible to all students and ensuring his vision continues to impact Cincinnati Public School students. If you couldn’t attend this special night, consider donating now to the Dean Richard E. and Dr. Gail H. Friedman Fund!

Who is Dean Richard "Dick" Friedman

But Dick’s true superpower? Transforming communities. 

As one of the founding Presidents and board members of ABC, Dick leads with passion and persistence, ensuring students in Cincinnati have equal access to sports, arts, leadership programs, and more. Under his guidance, ABC became a lifeline for thousands of children – helping them grow, thrive, and gain confidence.

Beyond ABC, Dick’s impact stretched far and wide:

  • He led boards of the Jewish Federation of Cincinnati, the American Heart Association, the Art Academy of Cincinnati, and many more
  • He helped merge synagogues, build nonprofits, and raise millions in funding
  • He was board chair for the Cincinnati Tennis Hall of Fame, a beloved professor, and a mentor to generations. 

He and his late wife, Dr. Gail H. Friedman, shared a passion for service, education, and equity. Together, their legacy continues through the Dean Richard E. and Gail H. Friedman Fund.

If you’ve ever asked yourself that question, the answer is simple: a man who’s spent a lifetime building opportunities for others. 

Richard E. Friedman retired from the University of Cincinnati after 42 years of dedicated service as a professor, administrator, and mentor. He served as Assistant to the President, Dean of the McMicken College of Arts and Sciences, and General Secretary of the Mid-East Honors Association. He shaped minds in ethics and philosophy and pioneered foundational courses in Sports Administration.

Why This Donation Matters

 

Donating to this fund isn’t just a celebration of the Friedman’s legacy — it’s a call to action. 

Your donation fuels ABC’s mission: to offer every Cincinnati child a chance to discover their passion, gain confidence, and access life-changing extracurricular opportunities. Whether it’s a young artist discovering her gift, a future leader building confidence through debate, or a first-time soccer player learning teamwork — your support makes it possible. 

Join us in honoring a leader who never stopped giving and help us continue his hard work well into the future!

Donate Now!