MONTGOMERY, Ala. -- Powerful Auburn University trustee Bobby Lowder has been a lightning rod during his 28 years on the governing board, criticized by some of micromanaging the school's sports programs to the point of interfering, while others say he has given of his time and service for decades.
Once named college sports' most powerful booster by ESPN, Lowder chose not to seek another term for a position he has held since being appointed in 1983 by then Alabama Gov. George Wallace.
Former trustee and ex-state Sen. Lowell Barron of Fyffe said Lowder has done much good for Auburn, both through his work and his generous financial contributions, and will be missed.