David Hayhow, a longtime member of the The University of Olivet Board of Trustees, died January 7 after an extended illness. He was 86.
“David was a wonderful friend to all of us and his adoptive love of The University of Olivet inspired many, including me. His service as board chair was remarkable and made a significant positive impact on the college,” said The University of Olivet President Steven M. Corey, Ph.D.
David was a member of the The University of Olivet Board of Trustees from 1995 to 2015, serving twice as chair over a 14-year period. He was named trustee emeritus on Oct. 2, 2015.
David took great pride in the growth and development of The University of Olivet. During his tenure as a board member, he was involved with and oversaw projects including the Burrage Library expansion, the Heritage Campaign, Phases I and II of the Cutler Athletic Complex/Cutler Event Center, Gillette Student Village, and the Embracing Opportunity and Responsibility Campaign, among other initiatives. In 2009, he was awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, for his dedication to Olivet, and in 2012 he was recognized with the college’s Leadership in Individual and Social Responsibility Award.
After earning a bachelor’s degree in journalism and advertising from Michigan State University in 1955, David began a career that is truly reflective of the The University of Olivet academic vision, Education for Individual and Social Responsibility. Starting with the Pontiac Press, he worked for four other publications throughout his career, holding positions from staff writer to publisher. Following his work in the newspaper industry, he was executive assistant to the lieutenant governor; he founded and published Great Lakes Life magazine; and he also founded and served as president of Publicom Association Management Services.
Even with a busy work schedule, David still found time to serve his community. He served as a member or director for numerous organizations, including the MSU Foundation, University Corporate Research Park, Professional Advisory Committee to the MSU School of Journalism, Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame, BoarsHead Theatre and Michigan Press Association.
A memorial gathering will take place from 2 to 5 p.m., Saturday, January 20 at Lynch & Sons Funeral Home, 404 E. Liberty Street, Milford, Michigan. Memorials may be made to She Should Run or Angela Hospice.