Remembering Hubbard: The Lasting Legacy of Former Northwest President on University Growth and Community

March 24, 2025

Northwest Missouri State University mourns the passing of Dr. Dean L. Hubbard, its longest-serving president, who led the school from 1984 to 2009. He died peacefully at 85 in his Kansas City home, surrounded by family, following a battle with kidney disease.

In a show of respect, current president Dr. Lance Tatum has ordered flags at the university to be lowered to half-staff from sunrise on March 25 until sunset on April 4. Tatum shared heartfelt condolences, stating, “Dr. Hubbard’s influence is woven into the very fabric of Northwest. His dedication, innovation and passion for education will always be remembered.” The community not only mourns his loss but also celebrates the significant impact he made on the university.

During his 25 years at the helm, Hubbard achieved remarkable growth and recognition for Northwest. Under his guidance, the university established a “Culture of Quality,” earning the Missouri Quality Award four times—an unprecedented achievement for any educational institution in the state. His work in total quality management gained him international recognition and positions on esteemed boards, including the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award.

In the late 1980s, Hubbard led groundbreaking initiatives, transforming Northwest into the first comprehensive “electronic campus” in the U.S. This innovative move, with networked computers in every residence hall and faculty office, paved the way for the technological advancements that define the university today.

A first-generation college graduate himself, Hubbard understood the challenges faced by students from low-income backgrounds. He created the American Dream Grant to provide essential financial support, including tuition, room and board, and textbooks. This program has evolved into the Northwest Promise, helping countless students achieve their educational dreams.

Hubbard also championed sustainable practices, spearheading an alternative fuels program that converted waste into energy. This initiative saved the university over $12 million on heating and cooling costs. Significant renovations to campus facilities and the creation of spaces like the Dean L. Hubbard Center for Innovation demonstrated his commitment to enhancing the learning environment at Northwest.

Historically, Hubbard’s time as president saw key milestones. In 1998, the Bearcat football team won their first national championship, and in 2008, enrollment surpassed 7,000 students for the first time, reflecting the university’s growth and appeal.

Hubbard’s international experience was vast. From 1966 to 1971, he lived in Seoul, Korea, helping establish language programs across several countries. His understanding of global education extended to consulting roles in Europe and Central America, showcasing his dedication to making education accessible worldwide.

After his retirement from Northwest in 2009, he continued his career at St. Luke’s College of Health Sciences until 2014. He leaves behind a rich legacy, a devoted family, and a university forever changed by his leadership. His wife Aleta, children, and grandchildren survive him, carrying forward his commitment to education and community.

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