DePauw University Remembers Esteemed President Emeritus Robert G. Bottoms

Beyond Greencastle, Bottoms achieved national recognition and influence on issues of education and leadership. He served on the boards of the Posse Foundation, Seabury-Western Theological Seminary in Chicago, the Joyce Foundation in Chicago and the Center for Leadership Development in Indianapolis. In addition, he was a consultant to the Lilly Endowment, the Arthur Vining Davis Foundations and the Fund for Theological Education. His book "A Story of Vision and Values: Memoirs of DePauw's Eighteenth President" was published in 2020, allowing new audiences to learn from his experience and expertise.

"The call I took from Bob changed the trajectory of my life," said Dave Hoover '67, who was recruited by Bottoms to join DePauw's Board of Trustees in 2002 and subsequently served as its chair at the time of Bottoms' retirement. "Bob was my friend, and he was interested in DePauw University being the best it could be. He was a natural at dealing effectively with people, understanding problems, and bringing together the resources to come to the best outcome. I'm saddened at his passing, but I'm also very thankful for his service as president of the university."

It is impossible to adequately express the depth of gratitude felt by the many DePauw community members who had the privilege of working with him or studying on campus during his presidency. As a direct result of his bold and courageous leadership, DePauw became a place where students and faculty from broad cultural, geographical and ideological backgrounds found a home and experienced a welcoming community. During his two decades as president, the number of international students and domestic students of color increased fourfold. This impact will be felt for generations at DePauw, securing his legacy as a compassionate and innovative leader.

DePauw University extends heartfelt condolences to the entire Bottoms family. "Bob" - as many knew him - is survived by Gwen, his wife of 57 years, as well as two children and four grandchildren. A memorial service will take place on February 14 at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Athens. DePauw will announce the date of a campus celebration of his life and leadership in the coming weeks.

In honor of President Bottoms, university bells will ring throughout campus on January 29 at 4:58 p.m., with a moment of silence to follow.