South Carolina State University (SCSU) is remembering the landmark contributions of its first female president, Dr. Barbara Hatton, who passed away on Nov. 3 at the age of 84.
Dr. Hatton was SCSU's seventh president, serving from 1992-1995.
During her tenure, she was instrumental in converting Felton Laboratory School into a state-of-the-art professional development school, initiating legislation passed by the General Assembly allowing engineering technology graduates to sit for the engineering licensure examination, and increasing collaborations and projects with colleges, universities and federal and private agencies.
“Dr. Barbara Rose Hatton was a true pioneer and a meaningful contributor to South Carolina State University’s mission during her time as president,” current President Alexander Conyers said. “We remain grateful for her service to our institution and our students.
“She cared deeply about the power of education to change lives, and her commitment to that mission will be remembered,” Conyers said.
Dr. Hatton earned her B.S. from Howard University, her M.A. from Atlanta University, and both an M.E.A. and Ph.D. from Stanford University, where she later became the first African American woman assistant professor of administration and policy analysis in the School of Education.
In addition to her work at SCSU, Dr. Hatton held leadership roles at Atlanta University (now Clark Atlanta), Tuskegee University, the Ford Foundation and Knoxville College.
Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.