University of Colorado - Coloradan Yearbook (Boulder, CO)

Page 24 text:

ROBERT l. STEARNS served the University as presi- July, to become head of Beottcher Foundation of dent from 1939 to 1953. He resigned, effective this Colo., an organization that helps people of the state. Robert L. Stearns, President, 1939-1953 During the years 1939 to 1953, which Rob- ert L. Stearns has served as president of the University of Colorado, it has grown rapidly in prestige and reputation among the institutions of higher learning. A large part of this progress was due to Stearns' leadership and organizational ability-his knack of getting almost everybody to work in harness with him. A university has many problems for its president, but always crisply dapper, bowtied Stearns served the school well. Ward Darley, former director of the Medical Center in Den- ver, will replace Stearns as president in July. Stearns is not only known as an able chief executive, but also as a most efficient administra- tor and a man of wit as well as wisdom. He is nationally known as a capable educator and a distinguished advisor to the US Air Force. In November, 1950, the Air Force asked him to go to Korea and analyze Air Force strategy in that area. In recognition of his wartime service, the Air Force awarded him the Medal of Freedom. After 13 years of service to the University, Stearns accepted the presidency of the Boettcher

Page 23 text:

PRESIDENT STEARNS chats with the 1952 Commencement speak- er before exercises begin. As leader of the University's ad- ministration he directed physical plant and academic operations. During his years as president the school has expanded great- ly both in size and in quality of educational facilities offered. president stearns board of regents general administration arts and sciences medicine and nursing law graduate school engineering military non-academic a. s. u. c. board of publications buff council m. s. u. b. associated women students business school board combined engineers

Page 25 text:

A HUGE FORMATION by the Marching Band spells honoring 'the retiring president and the popular out Bob during a football halftime demonstration wife, Amy. Stearns aided the University greatly. l-...............-.,,..,. WARD DARLEY, shown above with ship model, will replace Stearns as president early in summer. Foundation of Colorado. The foundation is com- mitted to the expenditure of its funds for the welfare of the people of the state. The new job will not be a departure from Stearns' interest in the cause of education. lt will permit him to use the experience gained at the University. Of his term as president of the University, Stearns said recently, This has been the op- portunity given a man to help educate the young and advance human knowledge. It has given me a great feeling of belonging. No greater oppor- tunity has ever been given any man. DANCING with Mary Lou Wendelken, Freshman Queen, Stearns made a hit at fall Club First Nighter.