Former EMU President Myron S. Augsburger Dies
The Harrisonburg community remembers the university's youngest president, who served from 1965 to 1980.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Primary Education
Myron S. Augsburger, the fifth president of Eastern Mennonite University, passed away on October 14, 2026. He is remembered for his leadership in Harrisonburg and his national recognition as an influential preacher.
Why it matters
Augsburger left a lasting legacy at Eastern Mennonite University, where he served as the youngest president in the institution's history. His tenure from 1965 to 1980 shaped the academic and spiritual direction of the Harrisonburg campus for generations.
Augsburger led the university as its fifth president for 15 years, starting at age 35, the youngest leader in the school's history. He previously earned his bachelor's degree in 1955 and a theology degree in 1958.
The players
Myron S. Augsburger
The fifth president of Eastern Mennonite University and a nationally recognized preacher who served from 1965 to 1980.
Eastern Mennonite University
A Harrisonburg-based institution that hosts academic and spiritual programs and was led by Augsburger for 15 years.
The details
Augsburger assumed the presidency of Eastern Mennonite College and Seminary in 1965, holding the role until 1980. Beyond his campus leadership, his influence reached a national audience, earning a place on a list of the five most significant preachers of an active gospel in the United States by Time magazine.
Timeline
1955: Augsburger earned his bachelor's degree.
1958: Augsburger earned his bachelor of theology degree.
1965-1980: Augsburger served as university president.
October 14, 2026: Myron S. Augsburger died.
October 15, 2026: University announced the death.
The Home Front
Augsburger's 15-year presidency represents a pivotal era in the school's long-term expansion and institutional development. His legacy remains deeply connected to the foundational growth of Eastern Mennonite University in the Harrisonburg community.
Families interested in paying their respects should monitor official university communications for forthcoming memorial details. The school plans to share service arrangements for the Harrisonburg community at a later date.
The takeaway
Augsburger's impact as an educator and faith leader highlights a significant chapter in local history. Families may wish to follow Eastern Mennonite University updates to stay informed on scheduled tributes to his life and work.
Further reading
Learn more about local academic history at Primary Education.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Whsv.
