Contact: Kawana McGough, Division of Development and Alumni Engagement
Tuskegee University mourns the passing of Dr. Marvalene Hughes ’60, ’61, a distinguished alumna, transformational higher education leader, and former president of Dillard University.
A proud two-time graduate of Tuskegee University, Dr. Hughes earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in 1960 and 1961. She went on to become the first African American to earn a Ph.D. in Counseling and Administration from Florida State University, later completing postdoctoral studies at Harvard University.
Dr. Hughes’ career was defined by trailblazing leadership and an unwavering commitment to student success. She served as Vice President of Student Affairs at the University of Minnesota, President of California State University, Stanislaus, and as the 17th woman and third African American president of the American College Personnel Association.
In 2005, Dr. Hughes became the sixth—and first woman—President of Dillard University, assuming leadership in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Through courage, resolve, and visionary leadership, she safeguarded students, sustained academic operations, restored Dillard’s historic campus, raised more than $34 million in her first year, and launched the university’s first capital campaign, ultimately raising more than $60 million. Her leadership left an enduring legacy of institutional resilience and renewal.
“Dr. Marvalene Hughes represented the very best of Tuskegee,” said President and CEO Dr. Mark A. Brown ’86. “Her life’s work was rooted in service, courage, and an unshakable belief in the power of education to transform lives. She was a trailblazer whose leadership strengthened institutions, uplifted communities, and opened doors for generations to follow. Mother Tuskegee is profoundly grateful for her legacy.”
Beyond her professional achievements, Dr. Hughes was a devoted mother, sister, aunt, mentor, and faith-driven leader who remained deeply connected to Tuskegee University and the Tuskegee community throughout her life.
Tuskegee University extends its deepest condolences to her family, loved ones, former colleagues, and the many students and institutions shaped by her extraordinary life and service.
© 2026 Tuskegee University
