Former Fulbright Dean Bernard Madison Remembered for Lasting Impact

The U of A is mourning the loss of Bernard L. Madison, former dean of the Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences, professor of mathematical sciences and nationally recognized leader in mathematics education. Madison, who served the university for nearly four decades, died July 20, 2026, at the age of 84. 

Throughout his 38 years at the university, Madison helped shape Fulbright College through visionary leadership, teaching and commitment to student success.  

"Bernard Madison leaves an enduring legacy at the University of Arkansas," said Chancellor Charles Robinson. "He was serving as dean of Fulbright College when I joined the Department of History in 1999, and I saw firsthand his commitment to strong academic programs and student success. His leadership strengthened the college, created new opportunities for students and helped lay the foundation for programs that remain central to our university today. Just as importantly, he shaped thousands of lives in the classroom as a nationally renowned professor of mathematical sciences. We honor his nearly four decades of service to the university and extend our heartfelt condolences to Sue, their family and all who knew him as a colleague, mentor and friend." 

A Career in Higher Education 

Madison joined the U of A in 1979 as professor and chair of the Department of Mathematical Sciences after previously serving on the faculty at Louisiana State University. In 1989, he was appointed dean of Fulbright College, a position that took him around the world while leading the university's largest academic college for a decade. 

Under his leadership, Fulbright College enhanced its Honors Program, established the Sturgis Fellowship Program and Middle Eastern Studies Program, created new interdisciplinary academic centers and dedicated the Fulbright Peace Fountain. He also helped lay the groundwork for what would become the Walton Arts Center, reflecting his belief that a thriving university should enrich both campus and community. 

"Dean Madison has left an indelible mark on the college," said Brian Raines, current dean of Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences. "We carry forward the legacy he has left us. Our work today would not be possible if not for past leaders like him." 

Mathematics Education 

After stepping down as dean in 1999, Madison returned to the classroom as a professor of mathematical sciences, where he devoted the remainder of his career to teaching and advancing mathematics education. A nationally recognized leader in quantitative literacy, Madison believed mathematics should prepare students to engage thoughtfully with the world around them. Madison authored more than 100 scholarly articles, reports and policy papers and served as chief reader for the College Board's AP Calculus Exam from 1995 to 1999. Madison retired from the U of A in 2017 after nearly four decades of service.  

A Lasting Legacy 

Born Aug. 1, 1941, near Mammoth Cave, Kentucky, Madison was the first member of his family to attend college. He earned bachelor's degrees in mathematics and physics from Western Kentucky University before completing master's and doctoral degrees in mathematics at the University of Kentucky. 

Madison is survived by his wife of 57 years, Sue Wood Madison; daughter Eva Madison Pieper and her husband, David; son Blair Madison and his wife, Caitlin; grandchildren Samuel Pieper, Isla Madison and Sabine Madison; sisters Phyllis Skipworth, Margie Littrell, Gwen Powell and Carol Wilson; and brother Gary Madison. 

Outside the classroom, Madison remained deeply engaged in the Fayetteville community. He served on the board of Butterfield Trail Village and continued supporting the community that he and his family called home for nearly 50 years. Friends and colleagues remember him for his quick wit, dry sense of humor, love of crossword puzzles, Cajun cuisine and Kentucky bourbon. 

A celebration of life was held July 27 at Moore's Chapel in Fayetteville. Those wishing to honor Madison's memory may make memorial contributions to Willard Walker Hospice Home in Fayetteville or the Alzheimer's Association.