Henderson State University - Star Yearbook (Arkadelphia, AR)

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J. M. WORKMAN, LL. D U39

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ames Nlimms Workman HERE are crises in the history of every institution which vitally affect its progress and development. These crises can be met successfully only by real men, men of the highest type, whose ideals are lofty, aspirations noble, and consecration to duty genuine. A crisis came in the history of Henderson-Brown College in I9I4 as a result of a devastating fire, the beginning of the world war, and consequent financial conditions. The student body numbered I35, the enthusiasm of patrons and supporters was at a low ebb. Many were the predictions that the college would be lost. A man was needed as they are always needed in times of a crisis. The board of trustees began a diligent search for a man, and Dr. M. Workman was their selection. Dr. Workman's peculiar fitness for the position is evidenced by the record of his achievements since he accepted the presidency. From a student body of l35 in I9I4, the enrollment reached 330 in l9I8. The college debt which in I9l4 was Sl I0,000, has been reduced to less than i p25,000. Patrons who had been estranged have been won back and new patrons have been secured. The attention, sympathy, and support of the entire Little Rock Conference is now directed toward the college, and each week sees the acquisition of new friends through the influence of the president. Dr. Workman's experiences before coming to Henderson-Brown, his fields of service, have been important factors in his success. After graduating from college he served as a Y. M. C. A. secretary in the pioneer days of that organization in Arkansas, when such things as Y. M. C. A. buildings and up-to-date equipment were unknown. Through his efforts largely the movement was started which resulted in the erection and equipping of the Y. M. C. A. building in Little Rock. K He next served as pastor of some of the most important and responsible charges in the conference, leaving behind him at each place hosts of friends who love and honor him and who remember him in his present position by pledging their loyal support to the college. Parents whose pastor he has been are glad of an opportunity to place their children in his care. While pastor he served as president of the Sunday School Board and in that capacity came in touch with the young life of the State, leaving an imprint that can never be erased. The president is a man in whose character a rare combination of elements is foundg a man possessing strength to face obstacles, the will and determination to accomplish a desired end, using only the fairest of means: amiable in disposition, appreciating the humor of a situation, sympathetic, having a listening ear and a kindly word for those in trouble: lenient with offenders, yet firm in requirement of duty: a man living close to God-an ideal president of a Christian college. Those who know him well love and honor him-students, teachers, patrons, business men alike. They find him a true friend, a wise counsellor, a real leader and a safe leader U25

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J. WESLEY' ROGERS Dean of Men U41