David Hartley

David Hartley, a 1971 forestry graduate of Michigan Tech, has shown exceptional dedication and impact to the University—not only as a student, but through his continuous volunteerism and involvement as an alumnus for more than 30 years.

Following graduation, Hartley worked as a sales engineer for Goodyear Tire before transitioning to the financial industry, where he learned the ins and outs of the business from the bottom up. His first position in the industry was at The Northern Trust Company in Chicago, specializing in trust and investments. Later he became president of a division of Citibank until later returning to Northern Trust where he eventually retired as senior vice president.

Hartley has served as a volunteer at Michigan Tech through various capacities, sharing his expertise and experience with students and fellow alumni. In addition to being recognized in the Forestry Honor Academy in 1995 and guest speaking at the fifth annual VIP Alumni Seminar that same year, Hartley served on the Michigan Tech Fund Board (1988–99, 2008–13) and was president from 1996–98. His leadership and advice left a lasting impression on both the Board and the University. Hartley was also a member of the President’s Advancement Council from 2014–18 and served on the College of Business Dean’s Advisory Council from 2013–24.

In addition to his service, Hartley has also made a large philanthropic impact on the University as a member of the McNair Society (recognizing estate donors) and the 1885 Society, which recognizes donors whose lifetime giving exceeds $100,000. He played a key volunteer role in the Generations of Discovery capital campaign, helping to cultivate donors and engage his extensive network of business colleagues and alumni connections.

In 2017, the Hartley/Dobson Family Annual Scholarship Fund was established in homage to the family’s connection to the University. Hartley’s son Bill ‘08, daughter Caitlin Dobson ‘10, and her husband, Drew ‘10 are all Michigan Tech alumni. Grateful for the opportunities provided to them by the University, the family established the fund to help others succeed, providing scholarships for first-year walk-on athletics students in the College of Business. 

“We’re trying to create a legacy,” said Hartley. “Sitting on the board you see the major contributions come in that go to buildings and big projects, which are great—we need that. But we also want to do something for the students.”

The generosity of Hartley, along with his family, has significantly accelerated the growth of the scholarship and opened doors for students to pursue their academic and professional goals.

While Hartley chose to attend Michigan Tech because it was the right fit for his academic field of study, he was active outside of the classroom as a member of Blue Key and the Forestry Club. Additionally, he was a founding member of the local chapter of Tau Kappa Epsilon. 

Hartley advises students and young alumni to listen and learn. “The most difficult thing for someone to do is listen,” Hartley said. “You have all this knowledge that you are dying to share. Sit back. Take a breath. Use your knowledge in a timely manner.”

In recognition of his service, the Michigan Tech Alumni Board selected Hartley as the recipient of the Outstanding Service Award in 2025. He will be presented with the award in August.

Updated May 2025