University of Georgia - Pandora Yearbook (Athens, GA)

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David Ckexshaw Barkow 1852-1929 Chancellor-Emeritus BACK of every institution stands sonic man who combines the visions of the dreamer with the accomplishments of the executive. A stranger, doubting this idea, would receive convincing proof of its truth if he should ask who was the father of the University. The answer, though couched in different words, would be striking in its unanimity. “Professor Barrow” or “Chancellor Barrow” or simply “Uncle Dave”—an answer which shows the universal affection and confidence of boyhood friends, teaching associates, and Georgia students. Some people must be known to be appreciated. Their talents and works, so human and so great, can not be described in bare, meaningless words. And “Uncle Dave” was such a man. As a boyhood friend and college chum he was sympathetic and charitable, according to the universal testimony of those who knew him long ago. And the years, which brought him fame and prestige, never dampened his lioyish enthusiasm or destroyed his understanding of youth. As a teacher he was kind and helpful, but he never confused sympathy with laxncss, a distinction which marked the great teacher. Every student of his has some personal, all-revealing anecdote to tell of “Uncle Dave’s” insight into human nature or help in time of trouble. And each one carried out into the world the example of his inspiring life and the philosophy of his clear yet simple thinking. As an executive he guided the University to a better day. The student body increased from a mere three hundred to nearly two thousand; the campus, despite little support from the state, grew nearly two million dollars in value; and the faculty was enlarged and strengthened. His contribution, apart from rusting bronze and crumbling granite, was excellently stated by Chancellor Snelling: “He created in the University an atmosphere of confidence, sympathy, friendliness, and affection that is its most precious heritage.