Delaware State University announced former school president William DeLauder died Monday. He was 81.
DeLauder was the university’s 8th president, serving from 1987 until 2003.
“He was a gentle and thoughtful man who was brilliant in his approached to moving the University forward,” said current DSU president Dr. Wilma Mishoe in a statement. “He was also a scientist, and as such, he paid attention to the small details, and that served his administration and the University well."
His 16-year tenure included the school’s elevation from college to university status in 1993. He also oversaw over $100 million in new construction and improvements. That included the Bank of America Building, the four-story Administration Building and the Pedestrian Mall that cuts trough he heart of Dover campus.
DeLauder also launched DSU’s first-ever capital fundraising drive in 1991, created the Office of Sponsored Programs in 1992 to attract federal grants and approved the addition of 11 new Master’s programs.
Enrollment grew by nearly 1,000 students during his time as president, reaching a then-record 3,367 students.
DeLauder 's life will be remembered and celebrated at a funeral in his hometown of Frederick, MD on June 8. There will be a viewing from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at Jackson Chapel United Methodist Church on 5609 Ballenger Creek Pike in Frederick, followed immediately by a funeral service there.
