Dr. Hilton Hallock passed away this week in her home at the age of 61. Her tenure was marked by a steadfast commitment to student success, academic excellence, and community engagement. She joined APU in 2017 as the chief strategy & academic officer and was named provost in 2018. She also served as the university’s interim president from 2021 – 2022.

Under her leadership, APU transitioned to an Alaska Native university, aligning with its mission to serve diverse communities and create collective impact. She was also instrumental in developing and expanding academic programs that are uniquely suited to meet Alaska’s needs.

Dr. Hallock’s dedication extended beyond program development. She was the principal investigator for APU’s Indigenous One Health Expansion program, a 5-year, $2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education aimed at increasing enrollment, retention, and graduation rates among Alaska Native and American Indian students in health programs.

“Provost Hallock was a champion of excellence and inclusion in education,” said Janelle Vanasse, President. “Her wisdom, warmth, and unwavering commitment to students, faculty, and the community will be deeply missed.”

Prior to APU, Dr. Hallock established a strong and diverse career in higher education as both a faculty member and university administrator. You can read more about her professional background here.

A Snapshot of Provost Hallock’s Notable Academic Program Achievements at APU:

Spearheaded the establishment of a nursing program with statewide outreach.
Launched an Environmental and Public Health program to meet community health needs.
Championed the Indigenizing of APU curriculum, which led to the creation of an Indigenous Studies minor, with plans for a major underway.
Supported partnerships to introduce a joint MBA/JD program for Alaskans.
Played a key role in accrediting health field certifications that can contribute to associate degrees.

Dr. Hallock’s extensive background in higher education included roles as Assistant Dean of Students at the University of Virginia, Director of Student Services at Longwood College, Vice President for Academic Affairs at New England College, and Director of the executive doctorate in higher education management at the University of Pennsylvania. She held a bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia, a Master of Education from the University of Vermont, and both a Certificate of Advanced Study in Social Movement and Conflict Studies and a Ph.D. in Cultural Foundations of Education from Syracuse University.

Dr. Hallock’s legacy is one of transformative leadership, unwavering commitment to inclusivity, and a deep belief in the power of education to effect positive change. Her contributions have left an indelible mark on APU and the communities it serves.

Dr. Hallock’s family will hold a memorial service in Virginia this summer, followed by a celebration of life at Alaska Pacific University this fall. In lieu of flowers or other gifts, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to APU — a community Dr. Hallock deeply loved and to which she devoted her remarkable talent and energy.

APU extends its deepest condolences to Dr. Hallock’s family, colleagues, and all those whose lives were touched by her incredible spirit.