University News

The University College of the University of Memphis will honor Richard B. Arwood, director of Fire Services for the city of Memphis, as its 2005 Outstanding Alumnus at a reception 2-5 p.m. Sunday, May 1, at Ridgeway Country Club, 9800 Poplar.

Arwood was appointed director in 2004. He leads fire and emergency medical services for the 1,800-member Memphis Fire Department. With an annual budget of around $110 million, the department protects a population of some 700,000 with 54 fire stations.

Arwood is a career firefighter and former division chief with the department. He retired in 1997 after 25 years of service as a firefighter, fire service analyst, instructor, company officer, fire suppression chief, and chief of training.

From 2001-04, Arwood was assistant fire chief for the city of Collierville. That suburban fire department has 67 employees and five fire stations serving 42,000 people.

Before moving to the Mid-South, Arwood was director of the Iowa Fire Service Institute at Iowa State University.

Arwood earned two degrees from the U of M, a bachelor's degree in fire administration in 1981 and a master's degree in public administration in 1983. He also has a bachelor's degree from Christian Brothers University.

Appetizers and a cash bar will be available at the reception. There is no charge, but a $10 donation is requested. All proceeds will benefit the University College.

Reservations are requested for the reception; the deadline is April 27. Call 678-3119 or e-mail alumnievents@memphis.edu.

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