University of Louisville - Thoroughbred Yearbook (Louisville, KY)

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1e Tho roughbred Es Ze a INAUGURAL RESPONSE of RAYMOND A. KENT PRESIDENT, UNIVERSITY OF LOUISVILLE Mr. Jowett, Members of the Board of Trus- tees, Mr. Mayor, Members of the Faculty of the University, and Citizens of Louisville: | cerca that youth holds the key to the future; that public higher education may determine the main purposes for which youth shall strive; believing also that the municipal university repre- sents a natural and high development of the American system of public education, I accept the position and responsibilities attached to the Presidency of the University of Louisville. The obligations assumed are not light; neither will the proper discharge of the re- sponsibilities be an easy task. But relying upon the cooperation of a Board intelligent as to the purposes of this University, of a Faculty grateful for its duties, of a citizenry which wishes for its youth the best that it can possibly provide, and invoking the assist- ance of our Father of all, I pledge to the University of Louisville my undivided allegiance and service. This occasion is fertile in suggestiveness. ‘The history of this Uni- versity, now in its 93rd year, furnishes a colorful background re- splendent in educational materials. This history is not of fleeting importance. It has contributed so significantly that it should, be- fore the passage of many more years, be made a matter of permanent record. But although the past is not our chief concern at this moment, it is only proper that we should pause to pay fitting tribute to those whose deeds have made possible the privileges which we now, through their labors, enjoy. The heritage which they have left in this University is indeed large. It is laden with large possi- bilities for the future. Let us accept that inheritance with due recognition and gratitude, and address our earnest endeavor to the problems that now confront us, keeping ever in mind the ideals and purposes for which this institution was founded and for which its loyal servants have given their efforts. J university of louisville! Nine

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Inaugural Response—Continued. Education for Negroes It is entirely proper that mention be made on this occasion of a project of which the future must take cognizance. I refer to the educational facilities of the negro portion of our population, which may be provided under the direction of the Trustees of the University. The records of the Board of Trustees of this University show clearly that an obligation in this direction has been officially assumed. At no time, as far as | am aware, has there been any disposition on the part of this governing body to do other than to give full recognition to the commitment already made. Following the successful vote on the million dollar bond issue for the University, the Board set aside $100,000 out of the proceeds of that issue to further the project of the higher education of negroes in Louisville. The plan as orig- inally made could not be carried through. In the meanwhile the principal sum of $100,000 has been specifically set aside and has been kept inviolate, and with accrued interest now amounts to $106,000. In its deliberations many months ago, the Board sought the counsel of a thoroughly competent adviser on this project, and Mr. Leo M. Favrot of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, made a personal visit to Louis- ville. Mr. Favrot in his work with the Rockefeller Foundation has familiarized himself with the problems of negro education and ren- dered similar service to other institutions. With the realization that the time has come for working out definite plans, Mr. Favrot has been invited to return to this city and advise upon what steps should be taken now and what should be the nature of the program for the future. He has promised to visit us within the next few weeks. Anticipating this visit, no plans have been drawn up for spending the $106,000. That definite action will be taken is a foregone con- clusion. Without question such action will take into account the entire negro population of the city without reference to creed or faith. But whatever is done should be the result of careful delib- eration and consultation. It should be based upon all the pertinent evidence available, and only after such evidence has been passed upon by a competent judge, or judges. Such procedure will not cause delay. In the end it will hasten rather than postpone the