In memoriam: Richard Weinberg

Richard Weinberg passed away on October 3, 2025, at the age of 82. He had a long career as a psychology professor spanning more than 42 years. Weinberg received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin, Madison; a master’s degree from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois; and a PhD in educational psychology and child development from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities.

He began his career at Teacher’s College, Columbia University, from 1968 to 1970. In 1970 he returned to UMN where he was a professor of educational psychology, and then professor of child development in the Institute of Child Development where he also served as director for 10 years.

Weinberg’s prolific career was dedicated to teaching, research, and service. His research focused on children and human development across the lifespan, behavioral genetics, strategies for assessing social-emotional behaviors, and promoting healthy development of children and youth. In 1973, he helped found the University’s Center for Early Education and Human Development (CEED) to coordinate interest and work across campus related to the welfare of young children and their families. In addition, he established the Children, Youth, and Family Consortium (CYFC) in 1991. Currently housed within UMN Extension, CYFC coordinates community-wide efforts to address timely issues affecting children and families.

For almost 10 years, Weinberg served as co-director of the Irving B. Harris Training Center for Infant Toddler Development, a highly visible program dedicated to the training and continuing education of individuals working with children during the first three years of their lives. Weinberg also served as a University Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR). In that role, he contributed toward rebuilding a culture of academic integrity, helped guide the merger of the men’s and women’s athletic departments, and influenced the expansion of mental health and academic programs for student-athletes. Thanks to his groundwork, Minnesota serves as a model for its support of student-athletes’ overall wellness.

Weinberg spent 40 years at UMN, retiring in 2010. During his long career, he received many awards, among them the University of Minnesota Alumni Outstanding Achievement Award. His life and work radiate his passion for scholarship excellence, service in the public interest, and his commitment to fostering positive human development in children, youth, and families. 

Please consider donations in Weinberg’s memory to the Alzheimer’s Association, Grace Hospice-Minnesota, or donor’s choice. View obituary.