Marion A. Ruebel
Over the course of a nearly 28-year career with The University of Akron, Dr. Marion A. Ruebel held many titles — from professor to provost to University president. His willingness to step into many different roles and provide leadership earned him the unofficial title of "designated hitter."
On Sunday, Sept. 28, UA’s 14th president died at the age of 81.
The native of Manson, Iowa, launched his academic career as a high school teacher and coach after earning a bachelor's degree in biological sciences in 1958 at the University of Northern Iowa. In 1962, he earned a master's degree in school administration at Northern Iowa as well. After several years as a high school principal, Ruebel earned a Ph.D. in educational administration at Iowa State University in 1969 and joined UA in 1970 as an assistant professor of secondary education.
Over the next two decades, Ruebel progressed steadily through the ranks. He served as assistant dean of the College of Education, dean of University College, executive assistant to the president, interim senior vice president and provost, acting vice president of student support services, and director of alumni affairs and governmental relations. No matter the title, Ruebel never completely left the classroom. He continued teaching undergraduate and graduate courses as a professor of education.
After retiring in 1994, Ruebel returned to UA in 1996 to serve as its president, which he did through 1998. During his term, Ruebel focused on enhancing scholarship opportunities and academic support for students. The Scholarships for Excellence initiative was launched to increase the number of full academic scholarships, and UA’s $125 million fund-raising campaign concluded three years ahead of schedule.
Friends may call at the Billow Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road, from 1 to 3 and 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 2. A Mass of the Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 3, at St. Hilary Catholic Church, 2750 W. Market St.
Learn more at Legacy.com.