Sex and Balances

That's a lot of minds to pollute. Classic Robin. Will miss you, old man!

Dr. Sawyer is one cool dude... oops... one cool Brit!!!

Loved that class - one of my most memorable classes and very educational. I remember being shocked that a professor actually taught a class on this subject.. A nice change from all of the hard-core science classes I had to take. Took it back in 1993 or 1994....

I was fortunate enough get into Dr. Sawyer's class in 1993. It was THE class to take, and not easy to get into! I loved this class--it was informative as well as fun, and I often encouraged my friends to sit in on a lecture or two, even if it was not for credit.

Even after all these years, hearing of Dr. Sawyer's retirement brings a tear to my eye. UMD, and the educational community as a whole is about to bid farewell to one of the best!

Best Wishes, Dr. Sawyer.

Kristen Noble, '93

I never took a class, but I have known Dr Sawyer on the football (soccer)pitch and he clearly has a great communication skill and an ease with people. He was always open and articulate and for this I fully understand his success as a professor and his ability to relate on a very delicate subject. Congratulations, Robbie on your retirement. It's a big loss for UMD.

Took his class back in 1997 or 1998. I still remember the videos he made. They all had phil collins/genesis songs in them. How can you forget that?! ☺

Robin was health ed director at the health center at one time. He was my boss. I was his secretary. Everyday was a fun day working with him and his humor. I miss those days. Seems like just yesterday. Robin you are and extraordinary person. Great person, boss friend professor and father. You and Anne raised a beautiful family as well! Happy retirement Robin. Congrats!?

As an academic advisor at UMD for many years, I will be at a loss as to what my answer will be when students ask, "What's a good elective?" I always respond "HLTH377....but you may have to wait until you are a senior to get in!"
Thanks for teaching this important class. You will be missed!

Thank you for your years of enlightenment. I took your class as a Junior in the '70s and things about it have stuck in my mind ever since. You'll be missed from scores of younger student who could use your openness. Enjoy retirement!

I took Dr.Sawyer's sex ed class in 1992. It was very enlightening. My favorite class was when he divided the lecture hall (nearly 500 students) into two groups - one for women and one for men. It was a free-for-all session of questions. Women could ask the men any sexual question they were curious about and vice versa. He was certainly a leader and very well respected.

I look forward to the many books you will write in your retirement.

Was fortunate enough to take your class in your last year teaching. Having graduated I've realized how little people actually know about sexuality, safety and proper communication about the subject. Thank you for making the world a healthier, funnier, more educated place!

Nikki Waxman, class of 2016

I taught UNIV100 when we first started the course - way back, last century! Having Robin come to my class of freshmen was always a hit with the students -- and me. Thank you for your willingness to always teach outside of the "designated" curriculum. Best to you, Robin.

Congratulations Sir Robin! Welcome to the much deserved ranks of the retired. UMD students have had the remarkable good fortune to have had the likes of you (and your predecessor, Doris Sands) nurture a healthy and informed understanding of human sexuality. May that string of extraordinary educators continue at Maryland. And Robin, please forgive me for my decades-long attempts to greet you with a botched English accent.. :-). Best to you and your family.

So most people will remember him as the "sex ed." professor, but Dr. Sawyer was an excellent instructor of health education. I am so grateful to him for shaping my education. It was the foundation for my work in community health.

RIP, Robin. Sending Anne and the girls strength and love. You will be sorely missed. You had such a positive impact on everyone you met. We love you! -Tracy K.