Richard Grant Dean began teaching for the Reich College of Education in Fall 2008. He taught courses on business communications, personal finance, and integrating media and technology into teaching. An alumnus of Appalachian State University, Grant was excited to return to Boone and teach in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction.
Grant was famous for sharing his gourmet, made from scratch cupcakes with his students and colleagues in the RCOE building. Grant’s wife, Dr. Chrystal Dean, was the faculty-in-residence in the Living Learning Center when the Deans first moved to Boone. During this time, the Deans hosted open house events, which included hundreds of Grant’s cupcakes, which students decorated and ate. Thus, the cupcake tradition was born.
Grant baked several dozen cupcakes at a time because his greatest joy came from surprising people with them. It was also a reason for him to hang out and ask them about their lives. Three cupcakes would be left at the Dean house, one for each family member, and the rest were brought to RCOE to be distributed. Grant was often asked why he didn't create a business for his gourmet cupcakes. His response was simple: "It makes me happy to give them away. People need joy and kindness they don't ask for and definitely don't have to pay for."
When the James Center for Student Success and Advising moved to the first floor of the College of Education building, the Grant Dean Food Pantry was established to carry on Grant’s spirit and generosity through the community of food.
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Food Insecurity
Did you know that food insecurity affects 1 in 7 Americans?
The Grant Dean Food Pantry is intended for use by those in our community who are food insecure. It should not be utilized for convenience. If you are in need, we welcome you to take what you need!
Learn more about other food pantries and resources on campus and in in the community!