Richard P. Beck

In recognition of his extraordinary contributions to Polar Bears International, the late Dick Beck was honored with emeritus board status in 2024, a rare occasion in our organization’s history. Dick joined PBI’s board of directors in early 1999 and served at two different times as CFO and once as secretary. In presenting the award, Krista Wright, executive director of Polar Bears International, praised DIck for his 25 years of service and unflagging commitment to polar bear conservation. “Dick’s expertise, philanthropy, and dedication have played a crucial role in shaping PBI into the impactful conservation organization it is today,” she said. “We couldn’t be more grateful for his many contributions.” A retired financial officer, Dick served on the boards of five publicly-held technology companies. Dick and his wife, Val, made their first trip to Churchill in 1998 and also traveled with PBI to Svalbard, Norway.