NW Missouri Times

The Northwest Missouri State University community came together on Wednesday to honor the legacy of its longest-serving president and first lady, Dr. Dean L. Hubbard and Aleta Hubbard, by breaking ground for a new outdoor fireplace at the Thomas Gaunt House. The project, funded by a multi-year gift from the Hubbard family, aims to extend the patio at the historic residence with an outdoor fireplace that matches the home's brick exterior.

President Dr. Lance Tatum emphasized the significance of this addition: “It’s going to be much more than just brick and mortar,” he said. “It’s going to stand as a tribute to the years of service and to the years of impact that the Hubbards have had on Northwest Missouri State University.”

Aleta Hubbard, who served as Northwest's first lady from 1984 to 2009, joined Mike Johnson, vice president for university advancement, in reflecting on their time at Gaunt House and their commitment to building relationships there. She highlighted her late husband's fondness for sharing conversations around "a good fire."

The event also included remarks from President Tatum about future plans for the Hubbard Hearth and Fireplace. He stated that it is expected to be completed in time for Homecoming activities in October, with a dedication scheduled then.

The Gaunt House, built in the 1870s and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, has been home to Northwest presidents since 1905.