Contact: Debra Dennis;
ddennis@dcccd.edu
For immediate release — Oct. 8, 2021
(DALLAS) — Noted educator and former president of Richland College Stephen K. Mittelstet died Wednesday. He was 78.
Dr. Mittlelstet was a visionary leader who led what was then Richland College through major milestones and accomplishments — most notably, the school’s recognition in 2005 as a Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award recipient. He faithfully served the Richland community for over 30 years, first as an original faculty member in the humanities program when the campus opened in 1972.
“He was instrumental in fostering a close-knit campus culture that extended to students and others within our community,” said Dallas College Chancellor Joe May. “His legacy of academic excellence and service to others will remain forever etched into this institution’s framework.
“I am forever thankful for his student-centric approach, which has propelled not only the Richland Campus but all of Dallas College to truly transform the lives of others. Make no mistake, we are a stronger institution because of Dr. Mittelstet’s efforts,” Dr. May said.
Dr. Kay Eggleston, who was appointed president of Richland following Dr. Mittelstet’s retirement, said she was inspired by the way he challenged the entire Richland community to promote a fair and equitable workplace. His legacy of visionary academic leadership, innovation and professional development will long remain a part of the Richland community, she said.
Following his retirement in 2010, Dr. Mittelstet continued to serve Richland as president emeritus.
Dr. Mittelstet earned a bachelor’s degree in English, French and history/religion/education from McMurry College and his doctorate in higher education administration/English from the University of Texas at Austin. His post-doctoral work was completed at l’Institute de la Valouze, France; Centre d’Etudes Francaises, Institute for American Universities; University of Avignon, France; Centro Linguistico, Costa Rica; and the Summer Institute for Intercultural Communications, Portland State University.
He is survived by two daughters and their husbands, three grandchildren, two brothers, numerous nieces and nephews, and a host of friends and loved ones.
Funeral arrangements are pending.
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