The 1950s - Social Life

With the war behind them, the students of the 1950s were rebuilding and focusing on the social aspect of college life. Military groups were still important and several of them are represented in the yearbooks, including ROTC, Arnold Air Society, ROTC Rifle Team, Scabbard and Blade, and Guidon. After 23 years of service to the University, Raymond Walters retired as president in 1955, leading to a new era of leadership under Walter Langsam. The 1957 book gives a fabulous glimpse into the life of a student and the events at the University in its "Features" section, which showcases student activities in academics, orientation, dances, Greek Week, graduation, and many other opportunities for student involvement. Also included in the features is a piece on important research at UC, including that of medical researcher Albert Sabin and archaeologist Carl Blegen.

Featured Text

a dedication to our retiring president…
As the seniors get ready to graduate from UC, the president, who had served the university so well since 1932, got ready to leave also. Dr. Raymond Walters is an internationally recognized authority on college and university administration, and is a holder of twelve honorary degrees. A native of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Dr. Walters received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Lehigh University in 1907. After four years in newspaper work, he won his Masters degree from Lehigh University and served as assistant to the president. Six years ago he filled a special Army educational mission in Japan and lectured to Japanese college presidents and other educators. Phi Beta Kappa, societies for the advancement of education and teaching, the Ohio College Association, and the Association of Urban Universities all claim Dr. Walters as a member and enthusiast. UC students and faculty members regretfully say good-by to their retiring president who always had a smile and a cheery “hello” for all in his twenty-three years as head of the University.

Found on page 112 of the 1955 book