Since its founding, Old Main has stood as the heart of NAU—a historic building symbolizing tradition, community, and new beginnings. Today, its third-floor lobby carries a new name that reflects the history and spirit of the university: the Bob Crozier Memorial Lobby.
Robert “Bob” Crozier, ’53, was a third-generation Lumberjack whose NAU roots reached back to the 1920s. As a student, he fully embraced campus life: he was elected Homecoming King, joined the Chain Gang, and forged lifelong friendships in his fraternity, Kappa Sigma Kappa. After earning his degree in education, Bob served in the U.S. Army before returning to Flagstaff, where his connection to NAU deepened.
In 1967, Crozier began a career at the university that spanned three decades. He served as alumni secretary, assistant director of career placement, assistant director of university development, and manager of the NAU Foundation. A visionary leader, he helped launch the Heritage Society (now referred to as 1899 Society), ensuring planned giving became a vital part of sustaining NAU’s future. Even after retiring in 1997, Crozier continued to be a tireless advocate for the university and Lumberjack community.
Following his passing on December 8, 2023, alumni and donors raised more than $24,000 to dedicate the Old Main lobby in Crozier’s honor. The lobby stands as a welcoming space to all who enter, reflecting the warmth, mentorship, and community Crozier championed throughout his life.
On August 15, 2025, the lobby was officially celebrated during a grand opening ceremony attended by Crozier’s family, caretakers, university staff, faculty, and friends. The event marked not only the unveiling of the memorial but also the coming together of the NAU community to honor a man whose life and service left a lasting impact.
Thanks to donor support, the Bob Crozier Memorial Lobby blends past and future, honoring a lifelong Lumberjack while welcoming new generations of students and visitors. Within Old Main’s storied walls, Crozier’s legacy continues to inspire, ensuring that his contributions endure as part of NAU’s living history.
