A third-generation KU graduate, Hagman grew up in Pittsburg, Kan., and arrived on campus in 1982. He was a staff photographer for the University Daily Kansan during college and served as chief photographer for KU’s sports information department in 1986-87. He was selected for a prestigious White House internship in 1986 covering Vice President George H.W. Bush. That led to an internship with the Ventura bureau of the LA Times, which turned into a full-time job.

Hagman was a leader in exploring innovative approaches to photojournalism. He received numerous awards including the Robert F. Kennedy Humanitarian Award for International Photography in 2019 for “The Great March of the Return” documenting Gaza/Israel border clashes. Hagman won the award with photographer Marcus Yam and said it was the most meaningful recognition of his career. 

Hagman’s devotion to his beloved Jayhawks was unmistakable. Both his home and office were filled with KU memorabilia, and he had a license plate that read “RCJGKU.” While dedicated to his craft, Hagman made the most of life outside work, too. He enjoyed barbeque, bourbon, traveling, the Grateful Dead and “gonzo journalism,” a first-person account of a story. Hagman is fondly remembered for always being the nicest guy in the room. 

Support Storytelling 

To donate to the Alan Hagman Scholarship or make a gift for Jayhawk journalists, visit www.kuendowment.org/journalism or contact Marlys Shulda at 785.832.7352.