51ĀŅĀ×

During a special virtual memorial service on Thursday, August 13, at noon EDT, the 51ĀŅĀ× community will celebrate the life and legacy of President Emeritus Vernon R. Alden, who passed away this June. 

A private service in Galbreath Chapel on the Universityā€™s Athens Campus will be streamed live so that all members of the 51ĀŅĀ× family can take part in honoring Dr. Aldenā€™s life of service, passion, and innovation. Joining members of the Alden family, speakers at the service will include OHIO Presidents Emeriti Charles Ping, Robert Glidden, and Roderick McDavis, as well as OHIO President M. Duane Nellis.

ā€œPresident Alden was a visionary leader who guided 51ĀŅĀ× through a time of tremendous growth and change. The initiatives that Dr. Alden led have benefited generations of students and will continue to do so. He remained involved with 51ĀŅĀ× throughout his career, and I appreciated the insights, support, and guidance that I received from him,ā€ Nellis said.

Dr. Alden served as the 15th president of 51ĀŅĀ× from 1962 to 1969. During this period, Dr. Alden and his administration saw a doubling of enrollment and staff. His administration expanded research and academic programs including the Honors College, the Cutler Program of Individualized Study, sabbatical leaves, the 51ĀŅĀ× Press and area studies including funding a Black Studies Institute.

Visit /aldenmemorial/index.html to learn more about Dr. Aldenā€™s legacy and to view the memorial service Thursday, August 13, at noon EDT.