In 1943, Dr. Hiatt moved to the University of Hawaii, at which he spent the greatest portion of his academic career. There he rose to the rank of senior professor, and entered academic administration. He served as the chairman of the zoology department, dean of the graduate school and director of research, vice president for academic affairs and acting president in 1968 and 1969. Leaving the University of Hawaii in 1969, Dr. Hiatt entered the diplomatic service of the United States, serving from 1970 to 1973 as a consular officer and secretary, and as counselor for scientific affairs in the U. S. embassy in Tokyo. In May 1973, he was elected by the Board of Regents to succeed Dr. William R. Wood as president of the University of Alaska, a post he held for four years.
Funeral arrangements are pending.