Former Chancellor Leonard Goodall passes away

July 16, 2012

Leonard “Pat” Goodall died at his home in Las Vegas, July 4, after a long illness. Goodall served as the first chancellor of University of Michigan-Dearborn from 1971-1979.

Chancellor Goodall speaks with campus visitor Rosa Parks Chancellor Goodall (right) with Rosa Parks

 

From the beginning of his tenure, Goodall was committed to the growth of our metropolitan university.

The UM-Dearborn campus experienced a period of exponential student growth during Goodall’s tenure, adding 5,000 students as the university for the first time welcomed freshman and sophomore students. At the time, it was one of the fastest growth rates of any four-year institution in the U.S.

The landscape of the university also changed dramatically in the 1970s. Dr. Goodall oversaw construction across campus: the Field House and Ice Arena, Library, University Mall and parking structure.

Beyond the structures, Goodall emphasized the academic strength of the university. From 1971 to 1979, academic programs nearly tripled and full-time faculty increased by more than 100.

Goodall went on to serve as president of UNLV for five years and then taught in the management and public administration department until his retirement in 2000.

He is survived by his wife, Lois, their children, Karen, Gregory and Karla, and nine grandchildren.