Tom Howatt, a self-made business leader, philanthropist and longtime Purdue supporter, has died at age 76.
Howatt, the son of a Scottish immigrant, rose from modest beginnings in northwest Indiana to become president and CEO of Wausau Paper, helping grow the company to more than $1 billion in annual revenue. His life reflected a deep belief in hard work, education and opportunity.
A first-generation college student, Howatt earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in management from Purdue University. He credited his upbringing and Purdue education for shaping his career, often emphasizing the importance of perseverance and self-reliance.
Beyond his corporate success, Howatt became a major benefactor to Purdue’s business school. He and his wife, Mary, established the Howatt Scholars program, providing full-tuition scholarships to students, and funded the Thomas J. Howatt Chair in Management. Their giving reflected a desire to expand access to education and prepare future business leaders.
Howatt also served for decades on the business school’s Dean’s Advisory Council, where he contributed time, mentorship and financial support. Colleagues remember him as someone who invested deeply in the success of others.
Cara Giese, vice president of development for Purdue for Life Foundation, says Howatt believed in business as a force for good. “Tom’s spirit was contagious,” she says. “He gave generously of all things — time, treasure and talent. He really embodied that. He touched everyone’s life and was one of those very special people.”
Distinguished Professor David Hummels, who worked with Howatt on the Dean’s Advisory Council during his tenure as dean, says he led thoughtfully. “Tom didn’t make long speeches,” Hummels says. “He asked great questions, and through them, helped shape the decisions that drove our strategic direction.”
“Tom Howatt exemplified the very best of Purdue — grit, generosity and an unwavering belief in the power of education to transform lives,” adds Dr. Samuel R. Allen Dean Jim Bullard. “His impact on the Daniels School of Business will be felt for generations through the students he supported, the programs he strengthened and the example he set as a leader committed to opportunity and excellence.”
Donations in Tom Howatt’s memory be made to the ALS Association at als.org/donate.
