Professor plants roots at CSULB

By Gerald Frazier
Daily Forty-Niner
 
After teaching at Cal State Long Beach for 14 years, music and literature professor Dr. Roger Hickman still enjoys his job.

"Teaching music is very rewarding because it can touch everybody's lives," Hickman said.

Hickman earned his doctorate from UC Berkley in 1979.

He began teaching at the University of Hawaii, but after five years he soon reevaluated his stay there based on the cost of living.

When he came to California he started teaching at the University of California Irvine.

A few years later he left UC Irvine and started teaching at CSULB.

"What really touches me the most is hearing from students from along time ago," Hickman said. "Sometimes you don't remember their name, but they come back and say what a difference this has made in my life and that just means so much."

At 51 years of age Hickman said he has experienced many joys. Most of his pleasure comes from his family.

He has been married for 26 years and is the father of two daughters and one son.

His wife, Dr. Paula Sabin, also works on campus as a lecturer for the department of music.

His son was also on campus a few years ago taking classes in the music department.

"It's kind of fun to have your son as a student," Hickman said. "He would always joke, and ask [fellow students] 'What do you think of the teacher?'"

He also enjoys performing and working in the community.

One of Hickman's fondest memories came last year when he conducted an orchestra and choir at the Sydney Opera House in Australia.

"They gave me the big conductors room. It was the most incredible room," said Hickman. "I almost did not want to leave."

Hickman has been working in the community for the past 12 years with Four Seasons Youth Symphony

"I love working in the community," said Hickman. "We do a lot of work with music going out to Hispanic areas, particularly in Orange County, and giving lessons for people that can't afford lessons."

Hickman has received numerous honors for his service to the community, including a nomination by the Los Angeles Times for Volunteer of the Year in 1998.