The Harper College Board of Trustees recently named Diane Hill trustee emeritus in
celebration of her 18 years of service and many-faceted contributions to Harper. Pictured
(from left) are Dr. Avis Proctor, Harper president, Trustee Eric Knox, Trustee Emertius
Hill, Trustee Walt Mundt, Trustee Pat Stack, Chair Bill Kelley and Trustee Nancy Robb.
For nearly two decades, Diane Hill has been a dedicated advocate for Harper College, championing student success, strengthening community partnerships and helping guide the institution through transformational growth.
In recognition of her 18 years of dedicated leadership, the Harper College Board of Trustees on Wednesday honored Hill, naming her trustee emeritus.
Hill, who was appointed to the board in 2008 to complete the term of her late husband, David K. Hill, served with distinction for 18 years before stepping down in January 2026. During her tenure, she held several leadership roles, including board secretary from 2009 to 2010 and board chair from 2010 to 2015. Her steady leadership helped guide Harper through significant milestones that advanced the college’s mission and expanded opportunities for students.
“For 18 years, Diane Hill has been a steadfast champion for Harper College, our students and our community,” said Board Chair Bill Kelley. “Her leadership helped guide the college through significant milestones from a successful capital referendum to reaffirmation of accreditation and national recognition for student success. Diane brought thoughtfulness, integrity and an unwavering commitment to governance that strengthened Harper for the long term. On behalf of the board of trustees, we are deeply grateful for her service and proud to recognize her as trustee emeritus.”
Among Hill’s many contributions was her tireless support of the 2018 capital referendum, which resulted in funding for the University Center, the Business and Social Sciences Building, and critical campus infrastructure improvements. During her service, Harper also successfully reaffirmed its accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission and received the prestigious 2016 Leah Meyer Austin Award from Achieving the Dream, recognizing the college’s commitment to student success and equity.
Hill also served on the Presidential Search Committee that recommended the hiring of Dr. Avis Proctor as Harper’s sixth president.
“Diane Hill’s impact on Harper College will be felt for generations,” Dr. Proctor said. “Her leadership reflects a deep belief in the transformative power of education and a commitment to ensuring that Harper remains accessible, innovative and student-centered. I am deeply grateful for her counsel, her integrity and her enduring dedication to this institution.”
In addition to her board service, Hill’s commitment to Harper spans decades. She served on the Harper College Educational Foundation Board of Directors prior to joining the Board of Trustees and later resumed service as the board’s liaison to the Foundation. A dedicated philanthropist, she and her family were honored in 2017 with the renaming of the David K. Hill Family Library in recognition of their generosity and lasting investment in the college.
As trustee emeritus, Hill will continue her connection to Harper as a valued ambassador. Her legacy of leadership, service and belief in the power of education will continue to shape Harper College for years to come.