Remembering Dr. Terry O'Banion

Dr. Terry U. O’Banion, Ph.D. (1937–2025), was one of the most influential voices in the community college world. For more than six decades, he challenged, inspired and guided leaders to reimagine what community colleges could be for students and communities.

He brought his vision and leadership to the Dr. John E. Roueche Center for Community College Leadership at Kansas State University’s College of Education, where he served as Senior Professor of Practice until his death in July 2025.

Known as the architect of the Learning College movement, Dr. O’Banion called on colleges to put learning first in every decision. His book, “A Learning College for the 21st Century,” became a touchstone for presidents, faculty and policymakers who wanted to create student-centered institutions focused on results.

Dr. O’Banion also led change from inside the movement. From 1983 to 1999, he served as President of the League for Innovation in the Community College, guiding it into what Change magazine once called “the most dynamic organization in the community college world.” He continued to serve the organization as President Emeritus and Senior Fellow.

Over his career, he wrote more than 300 publications, including 18 books and hundreds of articles, chapters and monographs. His body of work is now gathered in The Terry O’Banion Papers and available free to anyone interested in advancing the mission of community colleges.

Six national awards carry his name, honoring his lifelong impact on students and the professionals who serve them. He often described himself as a provocateur in education, someone who proposed what could enhance learning, exposed what reduced it and challenged the field to imagine what might be possible.

Dr. O’Banion’s legacy endures in the thousands of leaders he influenced and the millions of students whose lives were transformed by his vision.