Robert C. LaLance, Jr.

Robert C. “Bob” LaLance, Jr. was inducted into the inaugural College of Applied Human Sciences Hall of Fame in the fall of 2025. He was previously inducted into the College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences Hall of Fame in 2005.

A native of Huntington, W.Va., LaLance earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Physical Education from West Virginia University in 1962, with minors in education and biological sciences. He was a member of Mountain Honorary, WVU’s prestigious men’s ranking honorary. He went on to earn a master’s degree from the University of Tennessee in 1963 and a Doctor of Arts in Physical Education from Middle Tennessee State University in 1974.

LaLance served at Middle Tennessee State University for 35 years in both academic and student affairs roles. He began as an instructor and director of intramural sports before advancing to Dean of Men in 1970 and then Dean of Students. From 1975 until his retirement in 1998, he served as Vice President for Student Affairs.

He was an active leader in the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA), holding numerous roles with Region III and serving on the National Task Force on Fraternity/Sorority/Institutional Relationships. In 1994, he received NASPA’s John Jones Award for Outstanding Performance by a Dean.

LaLance was also involved with several honorary and professional societies, including Phi Kappa Phi, Phi Delta Kappa, Golden Key National Honor Society, and Sigma Delta Psi. He was active in the Rutherford County (Tenn.) community, holding leadership roles in the Oakland’s Kiwanis Club and MTSU’s athletic and development programs.

He passed away in January 2012.