Hugh enrolled at Missouri Valley College in 1941 and earned two letters in football and one letter in track and field before entering the United States Army.  During his time in the Army he served in Germany losing his left hand above the wrist and was awarded the Purple Heart with Cluster, and the Silver Star.  Hugh returned to Missouri Valley College to earn two more letters in football and three letters in track and field.

During his athletic career Hugh played on four football teams that had undefeated records, he played in two bowl games, and received the Williamson Trophy presented to the Most Valuable Small College Player in the Nation.  Hugh also was co-captain of the track and field team before his graduation from Missouri Valley College in 1948.

Following graduation Hugh attended the University of Missouri earning his Master’s Degree in 1950.  Hugh began his coaching career in Macon (MO), and spent one year as an assistant to Warren Harris in Pennsylvania.  Hugh returned to Macon were he has been ever since.

The Macon Public School System named the football stadium after Coach Dunn in 1971, and was elected to the NAIA Football Hall of Fame in 1972.

Hugh is the proud father of three sons and two daughters.