Hannibal-LaGrange University (HLGU) has received a generous gift from the estate of Harold and Laura Robertson. In gratitude, the university has named its Institutional Advancement Suite the Robertson Suite, a permanent tribute to the couple’s faithfulness and their investment in Christ-centered higher education.
The Robertson Suite was formally unveiled on Friday, October 16, 2026, during a special ceremony held while the HLGU Board of Trustees was on campus. Trustees, university leaders, and friends of the Robertsons gathered to celebrate the gift and the lives of the couple behind it.
“Harold and Laura Robertson chose to leave a legacy that will bless students for generations to come,” said Dr. Robert Matz, HLGU President. “Proverbs 13:22 tells us that a good person leaves an inheritance to their children’s children. Through this gift, the Robertsons have done exactly that for the HLGU family. Every time we walk into the Robertson Suite, we will remember their faithfulness and give thanks to God for them.”
Rev. Mark Hughes, pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Hannibal, shared remarks about Laura, who was a lifelong member of the congregation. He spoke of her devotion to her church family and the quiet, steady faith that marked her life.
Cindy Cowden, Vice President of Trust Services at HNB Bank, also spoke about Harold and Laura. Cowden visited Laura every week until Laura’s passing, and she shared personal reflections on the couple’s kindness, generosity, and the friendship they built over the years.
The Robertson Suite houses HLGU’s Institutional Advancement team, the office that cultivates relationships with alumni, donors, and friends of the university. It is a fitting home for the Robertsons’ name, as their generosity will now inspire the very work of building partnerships that support HLGU students.
Those interested in leaving a legacy gift to Hannibal-LaGrange University may contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at (573) 629-3124 or [email protected].