Susquehanna University - Lanthorn Yearbook (Selinsgrove, PA)

Page 10 text:

Tn nur uuirthii and cstrnurcl H ' vrsiclrnt this iUilinm- is imist vcsyrrtfullii and affcrtinnatrh ' clrriicatrtl lui Thr i£lass uf lUUG.

Page 12 text:

Rev. John B. Tocht, D. D. In the list of names embellishing the pages of Susquehanna ' s history, none deserves more to stand first than that which heads this sketch. He is a man of unimpeachable character, of quick and ready sympathy, ever directing toward the highest, noblest and best. A man of scholarly attainments, frank and generous in his dealings, winning in manner and respected by all. His perceptions are quick and clear, his judgments calm and accurate, purposes good and pure beyond all question. His integrity is all-pervading, all-controlling and incorruptible; his will indomitable. Dr. Focht, son of Rev. D. H. and Susan (Brown) Focht, was born in Chambersburg, Pa., July 20, 1851. He prepared for college at Missionary Institute, and entered Pennsylvania College in 1871. He was appointed orator for the anniversary of the Philomatheon Society in 1873, and in the oration delivered proved to the world that the honor had not been thrust upon him in vain. He was awarded the Hassler gold medal for proficiency in Latin, and in 1874 received the Graeff prize for the best essay on Tennyson ' s Idyls of the King. He graduated in 1874 with first honors and the valedictory. During 1875-76 he was proctor of Pennsylvania College, and the next year was appointed principal of the Preparatory Department of Pennsylvania State College. He was ordained in 1876, but did not enter the active ministry until 1887. After graduating from the Theological Seminary at Gettysburg in 1877, he accepted a