Bay College mourns passing of trustee emeritus Thomas L. Butch
Longest-serving trustee leaves lasting legacy of leadership, service, commitment
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ESCANABA - Bay College mourns the passing of Trustee Emeritus Thomas L. Butch, who died July 15 at the age of 84.
For five decades, Butch dedicated himself to the success of Bay College, serving on the board of trustees from 1974 until his retirement in 2024. Butch was appointed to the board in April 1974 and subsequently elected to eight terms by the voters of Delta County.
As the longest-serving trustee in the college’s history, he helped shape nearly every chapter of Bay College’s evolution, working alongside five college presidents and playing an instrumental role in the selection of the institution’s last four presidents.
Throughout his tenure, Butch championed two guiding principles: student success and fiscal responsibility. His thoughtful leadership and steady governance helped establish a culture of civility and collaboration that became a hallmark of the board of trustees, mentoring generations of trustees while keeping students at the center of every decision.
During Butch's 50 years of service, Bay College experienced a remarkable transformation. Butch helped guide the college through its first full accreditation in 1976 and every successful reaffirmation since, supported the expansion of academic programs across the Upper Peninsula and beyond through online learning, strengthened transfer partnerships with universities throughout Michigan, expanded student support services, restored intercollegiate athletics and advocated for technological innovations that positioned Bay College as a leader in digital education.
Butch's leadership also helped secure the college’s long-term future through successful millage campaigns that funded the construction of the Learning Resources Center, the Joseph L. Heirman University Center, the Iron Mountain campus and ongoing capital improvements. He supported partnerships that strengthened the region, including the long-standing relationship with the Northern Lights YMCA, while representing Bay College on the Michigan Community College Association Board of Directors and Legislative Committee, where he tirelessly advocated for equitable state funding for Michigan’s community colleges.
In 2019, Butch was honored when the college renamed its library the Thomas L. Butch Library. In further recognition of his extraordinary service, the Bay College Board of Trustees named Butch Trustee Emeritus upon his retirement in 2024, allowing him to continue representing the college at ceremonial events.
That same year, he received the Michigan Community College Association Recognition Award for his exemplary contributions to Michigan’s community colleges. Together with his wife, Alice, Butch established a scholarship endowment through the Bay College Foundation, reflecting their shared belief in the transformative power of education and their lifelong commitment to serving their community.
"Although I had the privilege of working alongside Tom for only a portion of his remarkable journey, it quickly became evident why he was so deeply respected. He led with humility, conviction, and an unwavering commitment to students," said Bay College President Dr. Nerita Hughes. "Tom understood that strong institutions are built through thoughtful stewardship and courageous leadership, and because of his vision, Bay College is stronger today. His legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of this institution."
“The Bay College Board of Trustees honors the life and legacy of Tom Butch with deep gratitude for his many years of dedicated service, steadfast leadership, and unwavering commitment to education,” said Bay College Trustee Wendy Middaugh. “Throughout his tenure on the Board, Tom was a respected voice, a thoughtful leader, and a true champion for students, faculty, staff, and the communities Bay College serves. His wisdom, integrity, and belief in the power of education helped guide Bay through years of growth, challenge, and change, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. Tom always saw farther down the road than anyone else in the room and led the Board of Trustees with courage and confidence. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.”