Background
Cole, Richard Thomas was born on April 20, 1948 in Detroit, Michigan, United States. Son of Clifford Stanley and Lois Elizabeth (Arthurs) Cole.
Cole, Richard Thomas was born on April 20, 1948 in Detroit, Michigan, United States. Son of Clifford Stanley and Lois Elizabeth (Arthurs) Cole.
Bachelor, Western Michigan University, 1969. Master of Arts, Michigan State University, 1972. Doctor of Philosophy, Michigan State University, 1980.
Consultant Michigan State Senate, Lansing, 1970—1973, majority executive secretary, 1975—1976. Director, school law Michigan Department Education, 1974. Lobbyist Public Affairs Associates, 1977—1978.
Consultant Institute Educational Leadership, Washington, 1977—1978. Chairman Publicom Public Relations, Lansing, 1979—1983. Deputy director Michigan Department Commerce, 1983.
Press secretary Governor James Blanchard Michigan, 1983—1986, chief of staff, since 1986. Lecturer in field; adjunct professor Michigan State University, 1985—1987. With United States Air Force Reserve, 1970-1976.
Special advisor Governor on Higher Education. Member board directors Michigan Education Trust. Member of American Association University Professors, Michigan Press Association, Michigan Association School Administrators.
Married Deborah E. Peterson, July 24, 1982. Children: Angela, Chapin, Rachel.