A memorial service was held yesterday at the University Chapel for former University Rector Hovey Slayton Dabney, who died Friday from complications of rheumatoid arthritis, according to family members. Dabney was appointed to the Board of Visitors in 1990 by former Gov. Douglas Wilder. He was named University rector in 1992 and served until 1998.
"As rector, he began in the turbulent period that followed the collapse of the state's revenue projections and budgeting system in the first half of the Wilder administration," University President John T. Casteen, III stated in a press release. "He was an energetic and thoughtful rector whose tenure saw progress in the representation and prominence of women and minority leaders both on the Board of Visitors and in the University's administration."
According to a press release issued by the University, Dabney was born in Charlottesville Sept. 18, 1923. During World War II, he served as a radio operator for bombing missions and narrowly escaped from a burning B-17 shot down over Hungary.
Dabney graduated from the University with an undergraduate degree in political science in 1948 and earned a law degree in 1949. After attending the University, Dabney began a financial career with the National Bank and Trust Company.
University spokesperson Carol Wood said Dabney's lasting legacy is his leadership of "the Board and the University through what was the largest capital campaign in higher education."
Former Board member Patricia Kluge said Dabney was always personable and friendly.
"He was the sweetest, kindest man I ever knew," Kluge said.
In a speech yesterday, Jay Y. Gillenwater, a close friend of Dabney's, recalled Dabney's donations of time and energy to the local community and various University bodies, as well as his commitments to Charlottesville area schools and the American Foundation for Urologic Disease.
"He was successful because of good judgment and his love of people," Gillenwater said. "He acted as a broker and facilitator. If you had a problem or needed something, he always knew someone who could help you."
Everyone present at the memorial remembered Dabney's extraordinary lifelong service to the city and University he loved.
"He was a great community leader," Gillenwater said. "He will be missed"
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