Ball State University is mourning the passing of Dr. Alan L. Hargrave, a beloved alumnus and retired administrator whose visionary leadership and student-first approach shaped the University for more than three decades. Dr. Hargrave passed away on June 7, 2025, at the age of 68.
Dr. Hargrave served Ball State for 35 years, retiring in 2021 as associate vice president for student affairs and director of housing and residence life. During his tenure, he transformed not just buildings, but the student experience itself—overseeing the construction of four new residence halls and the renovation of seven others. He was instrumental in shaping the University’s Housing and Dining Master Plan and elevating Ball State’s living-learning community model. His efforts ensured that residence life was not just about where students lived, but how they grew.
“Alan’s legacy on Ball State’s campus is visible in the residence halls and programs that provide a home and a space to belong,” said Ro-Anne Royer Engle, vice president for student affairs, who worked alongside Dr. Hargrave for many years. “But his legacy also lives on in the hundreds of professionals who had the good fortune to learn how to lead, innovate, and create welcoming learning communities because of him. He made others feel seen and valued with an encouraging word and gratitude. I will miss my friend and colleague.”
Dr. Hargrave began his career in student housing after earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Eastern Illinois University. He joined Ball State in 1986 and later earned his Doctor of Education in Adult and Community Education from the University in 2000. He also taught as an adjunct faculty member in Ball State’s Student Affairs Administration in Higher Education program, mentoring future student affairs professionals.
He was a national leader in his field, serving as president of the Association of College and University Housing Officers – International (ACUHO-I) and contributing dozens of presentations and publications to the profession. In 2021, Ball State honored his enduring impact by naming the Multipurpose Room in Park Hall in his honor.
Though known professionally for his administrative expertise and commitment to students, Dr. Hargrave’s life outside the University was equally rich. He was a respected figure in the dog show community, owning and exhibiting champion Russell and Border Terriers—including Dynamite, one of the most decorated Russell Terriers in breed history. Following retirement, he began judging Terrier breeds and was celebrated for his knowledge and enthusiasm.
He also found joy in baking and quilting—gifts he shared generously with friends, family, and charity auctions alike. As The Canine Chronicle wrote, “Alan was a kind and witty man with countless friends. He will be deeply missed.”
Visitation and services will be held Wednesday, June 25, at Broadway United Methodist Church in Indianapolis. Private burial will follow in Johnsonville, Ill. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Dr. Hargrave’s memory to one of the following: the ACUHO-I Foundation Fund, the Jack Collins RA Scholarship Fund at Ball State University, or the Lou Hencken Housing Service Scholarship at Eastern Illinois University.
