Susquehanna University - Lanthorn Yearbook (Selinsgrove, PA)

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Historical Sketch of Susquehanna University We have again reached the time when it is altogether fitting and pro- per that we should present our readers with a brief account of the record Susquehanna University has made for herself during the few years that have elapsed since the institution is known by the aforesaid name. Though comparatively young, Susquehanna has had a remarkable de elopment. We note with pleasure that this development has eclipsed the expectations of her most ardent supporters. She sprung from what was formerly known as Missionary Institute, which was founded in 1858, — her growth not having been sudden, but gradual. Until the year 1894, what is now known as Susquehanna Uni ersity, comprised but one building, — that of Selin ' s Grove Hall, the money for which was provided by the generous and whole hearted people of Selin ' s Grove. In that year, in order to meet the demands for larger and better accommodations, the commodious building known as Gustavus Adolphus Hall was erected. It was also during that year that the Junior and Senior vears of a college course were added, with conferring of degrees, and it was then that the institution received the more appropriate name of Susquehanna Uni ersitv. In 1897, three years later, another pressing need was supplied, and ever since that time the students have been enjoying the advantages of a chemical and physical laboratory, fairly well adapted in all its appointments to the requirements. The work of both Theological and Collegiate depart- ments was continued with increasing success until 1899, when Dr. Dimm re- signed the Presidencv, remaining ho e er, to continue his work as a Pro- fessor. Rev. C. W. Heisler, D. D., of Denver, Col., was chosen to succeed Dr. Dimm, and it was under his jurisdiction that the departments of Music and Elocution were established, while arious changes and additions were made to the other courses of study. In 1901, Dr. Heisler, who had proved himself a very able man, resigned, and Dr. Woodruff was elected dean, assuming the duties of president of the Collegiate Department, while the Rev. Jacob Yutzy, D. D., acted as dean of the Theological Department. The beautiful Ladies ' Dormitory, known as Seibert Memorial Hall, was erected and dedicated during this period, while the Commercial Course, along with se ' eral other noteworthy changes, was added. 12

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Courses of Study I. i ' heology. II. College of Liberal Arts. 1. Classical Course. 2. Latin Scientific Course. 3. Greek Scientific Course. 4. Teachers ' College Course. III. Preparatory. 1. Academic Course. 2. Teachers ' Elementary Course. IV. Conservatory of Music. V. School of Expression. VI. School of Business. VII. School of Art. u

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The toUowina; year Rev. Geo. W. Enders, D. D., of York, Pa., was elected president, and it was during this period that the Alumni Gymnasium was added to our group of buildings. This gymnasium we believe to be the finest of its kind in the state. It fills a vacancy, which, up to this time, was sorely needed, and it is now that the begrimed athletes can take full advan- tage of the refreshing showers after exerting themselves with the various ap- paratus, or after having applied their physical strength on the athletic field. Dr. Enders, however, remained president of the institution only a few years, when, because of other duties, he resigned in favor of Dr. John B. Focht, D. D., of Selin ' s Grove. He remained in oflice but one year, when upon his resignation Rev. Chas. T. Aikens, A. M., was elected and continues in the office to the present time. Under the supervision and direction of President Aikens, Susquehanna has progressed admirably. In spite of the many disparaging and discourag- ing words received from different quarters concerning the financial depres- sion of the school, Susquehanna has made many improvements and her finan- cial condition is better than it was several years ago. Besides two more buildings have been added in as many years — a Laundry and a well-equipped Steam plant. Then, again, our buildings are now lighted by electricity, so that in many ways Susquehanna University resembles a perfect Paradise. But there i s yet much to be attained ; there are the many needs of a growing institution ; there are many things which time alone can accomplish ; yet with what has been accomplished heretofore, and w ith w hat is being accomplished at present ; with loyalty on the part of the students and friends of the institu- tion ; with the fond anticipation of a new Recitation Hall and also a new Music Hall in the near future ; and with numerous other hopes and expec- tations we bespeak for Susquehanna far greater success and far wider accom- plishments in the field of usefulness over which her influence is destined to extend in years to come. 13