Fifty years ago, 38 year-old Vernon Alden was inaugurated as the 15th president of Ohio University.
In celebration, OU Libraries will be holding a year of events and accolades beginning April 28. Throughout the year art exhibits, dinners, and events will features speakers such as former OU President Charles Ping and current OU President Roderick McDavis.
“It is an honor for us to host the event because Alden Library was one of Alden’s most significant accomplishments during his presidency and remains one of his lasting legacies,” said Scott Seaman, dean of Ohio University Libraries in a news release.
During Alden’s presidency from 1962 to 1969, his administration saw a doubling of enrollment and faculty, a 750-acre expansion of campus, including the construction of the Convo, and a new regional airport, states the release.
In addition, Alden helped work to reroute the Hocking River and aided in the construction of the Appalachian Highway Network.
Before his time as president was up, six OU regional campuses were built.
Alden’s views of OU’s potential might best be summed up by an excerpt from his inaugural address: “One cannot visit this campus without sensing the feeling of expectation that even higher levels of accomplishment and service will be achieved. The essential elements exist for continued growth.”
