In sympathy – Jack Magruder, EdD, former ATSU president, passes
Posted: November 18, 2024
It is with sadness I share with you the passing of W. Jack Magruder, EdD, DHL (hon.), president emeritus of A.T. Still University. Dr. Magruder served as ATSU’s 11th president from 2008-2012.
A native of northeast Missouri, Dr. Magruder earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry and mathematics from Northeast Missouri State Teachers College (now Truman State University), where he also met his wife, Sue, in 1954. They married shortly after and shared a life of partnership and devotion.
Dr. Magruder began his career at Truman State University in 1964 as an assistant professor of chemistry, later advancing to professor, head of the Division of Science, and eventually, vice president for academic affairs. In 1994, he became Truman’s 13th president, leading with distinction.
His career included numerous leadership roles in higher education, including president of the Council of Public Liberal Arts Colleges and chair of the Missouri Coordinating Board for Higher Education Committee on Transfer and Articulation. He also served on the Board of Trustees for The Higher Learning Commission and as president of the Truman State University Foundation Board.
Dr. Magruder’s academic accomplishments were equally impressive. He earned a master’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa, a doctorate from the University of Northern Colorado, and completed graduate work at Louisiana State University and Harvard University’s Institute of Educational Management. In 2002, he received an honorary doctor of humane letters degree from ATSU’s Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Before becoming ATSU’s president, Dr. Magruder was a member of our Board of Trustees, bringing his visionary leadership and commitment to education to our University. During his tenure as president, Dr. Magruder was instrumental in the founding of ATSU’s Missouri School of Dentistry & Oral Health.
Dr. Magruder will be deeply missed by colleagues, students, alumni, and friends. His legacy of dedication and service to ATSU and higher education will endure through the lives he touched.
On behalf of the entire ATSU family, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Magruder family and his many friends during this difficult time.
Yours in service,
Craig M. Phelps, DO, ’84
A funeral service will be held on Saturday, November 23, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. CST at First United Methodist Church in Kirksville, followed immediately by a graveside service. A public service of remembrance will take place on Sunday, November 24, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. CST in the Student Union Georgian Room at Truman State University.