Remembering William Rankin “Bill” Dill H’91, Babson’s Eighth President

April 30, 2026

William Dill gestures while speaking during a Babson event in 2019

William Rankin “Bill” Dill H’91, who passed away March 31, served as Babson’s president from 1981 to 1989, a period of important growth and development for the College. (Photo: Justin Knight)

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William Rankin “Bill” Dill H’91, Babson College’s eighth president, passed away peacefully March 31 in Auburndale, Mass. He was 95.

Dill served as Babson’s president from 1981 to 1989, a period of important growth and development for the College. During his tenure, Babson expanded its reach and reputation, including opening new opportunities for students and faculty to engage internationally. Under his leadership, the College also strengthened the facilities and infrastructure that support student life, executive education, and learning across campus.

In a statement announcing the passing, current Babson President Stephen Spinelli Jr. MBA’92, PhD praised Dill’s leadership and his vision that continues to impact the College now.

“At the heart of President Dill’s impact was his deep commitment to integrating the liberal arts and business education. That vision continues to shape Babson today,” Spinelli said. “Our undergraduate students still complete half of their coursework in the liberal arts, reflecting a philosophy of education he helped advance.

“I am personally grateful for the time I spent with President Dill, first as an MBA evening student and later during a fireside chat in 2019, when we reflected together on Babson’s past, present, and future.

“President Dill’s legacy lives on through the curriculum he helped shape and the generations of students, faculty, and staff who have benefited from his leadership and vision. He will be remembered with appreciation and respect across the Babson community.”

A remembrance gathering will be held at Lasell Village in Auburndale at 1 p.m. May 29. Read the full obituary.