Raymond A. Pearson papers

Collection — Multiple Containers

Identifier: RS 2/7

Staff Only

Scope and Content

This collection (1901-1975) contains biographical information, correspondence, addresses and speeches, newspaper clippings, family and professional photographs, reports, and printed materials. Of particular interest is Pearson’s communications with the State Board of Education as well as its Buildings and Business Committee.

A number of blueprints submitted to the Buildings and Business Committee (State Board of Education) have been removed for conservation work.

Dates

Creation: 1892-1983, undated

Language of Materials

English

Access Restrictions

Open for research.

Use/Re-use Restrictions

Consult Special Collections and University Archives

Biography/Profile

The son of an Indiana railroad executive, Raymond A. Pearson was a Cornell University graduate in dairy industry and worked with the government and commercial dairy laboratory. In 1903 he returned to Cornell to organize a department of dairy industry.

He headed the New York Department of Agriculture for four years prior to his appointment as president of Iowa State College (University) (1912-1926). Pearson completed the divisional organization of undergraduate programs; strongly promoted the graduate program, which was given divisional status in 1915; broadened extension service; and gave wholehearted support to "big-time" goals in athletics. While at Iowa State College (University) he served as Assistant Secretary of Agriculture during the war emergency period of 1917-1918.

Campus construction during his administration surpassed that of any other era prior to the post-World War II boom; 14 academic buildings in service during the 1970s were constructed during Pearson's term.

He resigned to become President (1926-1935) of the University of Maryland.

Extent

7.36 Linear Feet (6 document boxes, 1 oversize box, and 2 map case folders)

Additional Description

Abstract

Raymond Pearson was the President (1912-1926) of Iowa State College (University). Pearson completed the divisional organization of undergraduate programs, strongly promoted the graduate program, broadened extension service, and gave wholehearted support to "big-time" goals in athletics. This collection contains biographical information, correspondence, addresses and speeches, newspaper clippings, family and professional photographs, reports, and printed materials. Of particular interest is Pearson’s communications with the State Board of Education as well as its Buildings and Business Committee.