On Saturday, June 27, Dean Emeritus and Doane College icon Donald J. '50 Ziegler passed away. One of Doane's first Fulbright Scholars, academic dean from 1975-1986, historian and author with several publications to his credit including books on Doane, as well as frequent audience member at speakers, lectures, fine arts programs, and more, Don has long been connected to Doane and Doane to him.
"Don was in so many ways the perfect reflection of Doane College's greatest intellectual achievements and aspirations. His passing is a deep sadness for us all," said President Jonathan Brand.
Don, a graduate of Grand Island High School, completed a history degree at Doane, followed by his doctorate from the University of Nebraska. Don served four Midwestern liberal arts colleges during his career - two as professor of European history and two, including Doane, as academic vice president and dean of the college. During his 11-year tenure, Don initiated curricular changes leading to major revision of the college's general education requirements. He also proposed and led the creation of Doane's Lincoln campus.
The author of published works on European history as well as short stories in NEBRASKA LIFE magazine, Don wrote extensively about the history of Doane. These works include "Historic Doane Families," "Doane College in Lincoln," and "A College on a Hill: Life at Doane, 1872-1987," followed by a recently expanded edition, "A College on a Hill and Beyond, Life at Doane, 1872-2005."
Don and his wife Glennys Tyser Ziegler met as fellow members of Doane's class of 1950. Don received the Trustee Award for Distinguished Service from Doane in 1990. Doane awarded its Exceptional Service Award to Don and Glennys jointly in 1999 as well as the Builder Award in 2008. In addition to Doane, they have a long list of service organizations and memberships they have supported through the years.
Don is survived by his wife Glennys, five children and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
His life will be celebrated on Friday, August 14, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. at the United Church of Christ First Congregational Church, 1440 12th Street, in Crete. Memorials may be sent to Doane College to fund a scholarship in Don's name.