In Memoriam: Barbara Hatton, 1941-2025

Barbara Rose Hatton, former president of South Carolina State University and Knoxville College, passed away on November 3. She was 84 years old.

Born in LaGrange, Georgia, and raised in Atlanta, Dr. Hatton earned her bachelor’s degree from Howard University in Washington, D.C., and her master’s degree from Atlanta University (now Clark Atlanta University). She later earned a second master’s degree and a Ph.D. from Stanford University, where she became the first African American woman assistant professor of administration and policy analysis in the School of Education.

Dr. Hatton went on to serve as dean of the School of Education at Atlanta University and served in the same capacity at Tuskegee University in Alabama. She also had a stint as director of the education and culture program for the Ford Foundation. In 1992, was named the first woman president of South Carolina State University. Five years later, she became president of Knoxville College in Tennessee. She led the college until her retirement in 2005.

1 COMMENT

  1. So very sorry to hear of the passing of Dr Hatton, I went to Hamilton High School in Dekalb County, where her father Mr. William Hatton was principal. She was writing a tribute to her father, and my families name was to be mentioned. Could some one from the family give me an update on the Tribute, would be so happy to hear. Please except mu condolences. Just saw the article in the paper. Thank you, Patricia Washington

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