September 05, 2018
Robert M. Lockhart, Ph.D.
Midwestern University honors the memory of Robert M. Lockhart, Ph.D., longtime member of the University's Board of Trustees, who died on August 25th, 2018. During his more than two decades on the Board, from 1991 until 2014, Dr. Lockhart served in several positions, most notably as Chair of the Academic Committee, as well as Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees, and member of the Foundation Board of Directors.
"Bob's commitment to education was remarkable, and his contributions to Midwestern University over his long years of service created standards of excellence that will forever be part of our institution's legacy," said Kathleen H. Goeppinger, Ph.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Midwestern University.
In addition to his services for Midwestern University, Dr. Lockhart showed a strong sense of civic duty to his home state of Michigan. His professional activities included service on several task forces commissioned to study higher education funding, and to the National Association of College and University Business Officers as a Senior Accounting Officers Workshop faculty member. Dr. Lockhart also served as President of his local school board and as a member of the Michigan State Board of Education Advisory Council for Teacher Certification and Professional Development.
Dr. Lockhart was also a dedicated contributor to his alma mater, Michigan State University, serving for 14 years as Director, Office of Planning and Budgets. The holder of B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. degrees from MSU, Dr. Lockhart began his professional career as Auditor of MSU's Kellogg Center for Continuing Education in 1960 and served in a variety of positions, including Assistant Controller and Budget Director.
While not engaged in work or civic duties, Dr. Lockhart enjoyed flying his airplane, driving his '56 Chevy, running half-marathons, being at his Beaver Island cottage, and receiving hugs from his granddaughters. Dr. Lockhart is survived by his wife Karen Petersmarck, children Scott (Jeni) Lockhart and Heather (Gary) Adamo, grandchildren Alexandra, Christine and Lindsay Adamo, siblings Ron (Betty) Lockhart and Janet Yurenka, step-children John (Gina Sobania) Perri and Elizabeth (Dennis Dryer) Perri, and 14 nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 45 years, Sally Foster Lockhart, and his granddaughter, Natalie Adamo.
Midwestern University honors Dr. Lockhart for his dedication to higher education and his steady and friendly presence. His legacy of committed service to our faculty, staff, and students will be remembered always.