University of North Texas - Yucca Yearbook (Denton, TX)

Page 15 text:

The lefe Governor Beauford Jesfer signs fhe bill which makes Norfh Texas a universify-plan college Mrs. Grace Cariwrigh+ presenfs Dr. McConnell wifh a check af +he dedicafion ceremonles on March 4. Shown inse+ in fhe picfure of Marquis Hall are fhe lafe presidenf R. L. Marquis and his successor, Dr. W. J. McConnell. lCarrurh Phofoj

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NTexas Enioys Era of Rapid Growrh Many moons may shine across the North Texas campus before another XV. McConnell comes on the scene. For Dr. McConnell's life has been one of sheer devotion, along with his wife, to one cause - building a greater North Texas State College. The tributes paid Dr. McConnell at his recognition dinner March 4 reflect the greatness of this nationally-recognized educator - a giant among a forest of great men. Taking over the presidency in IQ34 upon the death of Robert Lincoln Marquis, Dr. Mc' Connell was a man eminently qualified for the presidency of North Texas State Teachers Col- lege. At one time he studied at the college, then moved on to the University of Denver and Colunibia University for graduate Work. I-le returned to Denton as a mathematics instructor and moved rapidly up the ladder by serving as associate dean. head of the economics department, and dean of the college. One need but look at the physical plant and the record of its growth to see a pearmanent testimony to Dr. McConnell's leadership. Dr. and Mrs. McConnell af home in iheir new collage al I8l5 W. Oak Sfreef.

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lllusrrlous Ex Named Elgh'rh Presldenf On March 4 - amid the excitement of ceremonies, luncheons. and dedication - Dr. James Carl Matthews became the eighth president of North Texas State College. Thousands of students, exes, and state and national personages crowded the campus to witness the event. Covernor Allan Shivers, representing the state of Texas, brought formal greetings to Dr. Matthews and to President Emeritus VV. Joseph McConnell. Also on hand at the installation ceremonies were Dr. Ben H. YVooten, chairman ol' the Board of Regents, and other college dignitaries. The new president first assumed his position in September. l95l. soon after the resigna- tion of Dr. McConnell. Dr. Matthews' work in the field of teacher education is recognized and applaud- ed throughout the United States. His name has appeared in Who's Who in America, Wl1o's Wlicm in American Education, Wlio's VVho in Texas, and VVho's XVho in American Colleges and Universities. These publications' tributes are representative of only a part of the work he has done in furthering the educational syetein of the nation in general - and North Texas in particular. President Matthews was honored at the March 4 ceremonies by not only his colleagues and his friends but also by the local press. Dallas television photographers helped to make the occasion an indelible memory. After obtaining his bachelors degree from NTSC, Dr. Matthews attended Peabody College where he received his mas- ter's degree and his doctorate. He then returned to North Texas to instruct and direct teacher education. Already on his way to becoming an authority on the subject ol' teacher education. Dr. Matthews gained civic prestige as NT,s initial vice-president. He was also the first dean of the School of Education. Dignifaries from all over the sfa+e flocked fo lhe inaugurerion ceremonies March 4, af which fime Dr. MaHhews became fhe eighth president of NT. 1 M' Y