The experiences, insights, and contributions of Chancellor William Pearson Tolley. He reflects upon his role in academic development, athletic advances, and library building as critical parts of the enhancement of Syracuse University as an educational institution.
For those who have known Chancellor Tolley, it is clear that he is a rare and gifted educator. Not only has he discovered education to be the fountain of youth for himself but he has made it possible for others to drink from its bounty.
Under Tolley’s leadership, Syracuse University participated vigorously in educating returning G.I.’s, and within six years, its enrollment tripled from five to fifteen thousand. Syracuse, during Tolley’s twenty-seven-year stewardship, gained national prominence as a research center while sustaining its excellent reputation in social science, art, and athletics.
William Pearson Tolley’s life has truly been an adventure of learning. Readers will be inspired by the warmth and enthusiasm revealed in Tolley’s encounters with challenging situations and interesting individuals—be they students, faculty, colleagues, heads of state, or philanthropists. His approach to life is one of excitement, respect, and dedication, and readers of this memoir will be encouraged to share it.
William Pearson Tolley was the seventh Chancellor of Syracuse University, serving from 1942 until 1969.
