Inspiring
Washington
125 years, and counting.
For 125 years and counting, Washington State University has been inspiring discovery, achievement, innovation, and courage. Let’s take a moment to look back and celebrate WSU’s history.
Explore some of the most memorable moments at WSU, from presidents to Apple Cups to wine grapes, through this interactive timeline. And we invite you to share your story, too. WSU is a community of inspired and inspiring Cougs like you with rich stories and experiences to share.
Join us as we celebrate 125 years and the people who made it all possible. Go Cougs!
The state legislature establishes the Washington Agricultural College, Experiment Station, and School of Science
The new institution, Washington’s land-grant college, is a product of the 1862 Morrill Act signed by President Abraham Lincoln. The act gives the state 90,000 acres of federal land to support its agricultural college and 100,000 acres to support its school of science.
Artesian wells in Pullman attract residents
Thanks to the discovery of artesian water, every home in Pullman has clean running water by 1891, according to the Pullman Herald. Well-digging has become a town spectacle. Pamphlets touting Pullman’s “ever-flowing springs of pure-abundant cold water” are distributed to lure potential residents to the area.
The legislature picks Pullman as the college’s location
The decision follows a lengthy and controversial site selection process lasting more than a year. Pullman’s selection is hardly based on its merits alone. Local citizens enthusiastically promote the town’s advantages and warm politicians to the idea after vigorous politicking, including gifts of cash and land.
George Washington Lilley named first president
President Lilley is appointed to a one-year term. His previous experience includes serving as president of the Dakota Agricultural College from 1884 to 1886. Soon after his appointment, he launches construction of the first classroom building, named the “Crib”—the cradle of an infant college. The modest brick building costs $1,500 to construct.
Construction of the first building, “The Crib,” begins
The one story brick structure (located where the Terrell Library now sits) houses agricultural and biology laboratories and a museum. The facility is absorbed as part of a new gymnasium, later known as the Temporary Union Building, or TUB, in 1901.
Washington Agricultural College and School of Science opens its doors
The institution welcomes 13 collegiate and 46 preparatory students who study agriculture, mechanic arts and engineering, and sciences and arts. President Lilley teaches mathematics and elementary physics. The Morrill Act specifies that one of the major subjects to be taught is, “veterinary art” and Charles E. Munn, a veterinarian, is among the first six faculty members. Tuition is not charged the first year.
The first student newspaper, The College Record, hits newsstands
The monthly publication lasts just more than a year, to be succeeded in 1895 by The Daily Evergreen. The Record’s editor, William D. Barkhuff, is an engineering student.
First intercollegiate athletics competition ends in victory
The State College students defeat Pullman’s Military College at baseball, in a game called after six innings due to the lopsidedness of the 26-0 score.
The college opens its first residence hall
The institution awards a bid for the construction of Ferry Hall on February 19, 1892. The college confirms plans to construct a second classroom building, the original College Hall, on May 15. The buildings are ready when school begins that fall.
C.V. Piper and the unique fauna and flora of the PNW
Charles Vancouver Piper believed he needed to classify the flora and fauna of the PNW so other scientists could better understand the uniqueness of area. He published Flora of the Palouse Region (1901), Flora of the State of Washington (1906), Insect Pests of the Garden, Farm, and Orchard (1895), and many other books, including works on hay, soybeans, and other crops.
John William Heston named second president
The Board of Regents names John William Heston as the second president of the Washington Agricultural College and School of Science after it terminates President George Lilley. Heston is serving as principal of Seattle High School at the time. The college community is incredibly unhappy about Lilley’s termination.
President Heston’s arrival spurs student protest
Frozen cabbages!
Students pelt Heston with rotten cabbages, plucked from icy fields nearby, as well as eggs and snowballs, marring the day he is introduced as president. The president of the Board of Regents, Andrew Smith, is also pelted as he walks with Heston across campus. The new president spends more time in Olympia and Seattle than tending to campus matters, fueling accusations around the state about unruliness in Pullman.
Harriet Bryan plants the Lowell Elm
The wife of incoming president Enoch Bryan plants the Lowell Elm on campus. She has brought the seedling to her new home from Elmwood, the estate of James Russell Lowell near Harvard University, where her husband had earned his master of arts degree shortly before becoming Washington State College’s first long-term president.
E. A. Bryan named third president
Bryan leaves his position as president of Vincennes University in Indiana to become the third president of the fledging institution on the Palouse, beginning a 22-year tenure as its leader.
President Heston leaves office
The Board of Regents ends the tenure of the president after just eight and a half months on the job. Charles Munn, one of the first six faculty members, also leaves in the wake of political turmoil. The position of Chair of Veterinary Science is abolished.
Construction begins on the athletics field
The first experiment station begins in Puyallup
After an infestation of hops lice destroys crops in the Puyallup River region in 1891, the legislature decides to locate the state’s first experiment station in Puyallup instead of Pullman. The station is constructed on 40 acres of land donated by the Ross family, giving the facility its first name, Ross’s Station. Now called the Puyallup Research & Extension Center, the center continues to provide valuable services and information to the local community.
Winners in first varsity football game
The college inaugurates the sport by defeating the University of Idaho, 10-0. The team doesn’t employ a paid coach until 1900, but advisers in the first couple years include newspaperman William Goodyear, agriculturalist William J. Spillman, and young athlete Fred Waite.
The Administration Building opens
The dedication of the Administration Building, known today as Thompson Hall, serves as a tangible sign of the college’s growth under President Bryan’s leadership. The regents describe the building as ”an excellent piece of work and one that in point of convenience, strength, and architectural beauty compares with any state building.” Built with granite quarried from Spokane and brick from clay deposits near Stevens Hall, the building’s two large contrasting towers make it one of the campus’s most distinctive landmarks.
The School of Veterinary Science opens
The Washington Legislature creates the office of State Veterinarian specifying that they also be the Professor of Veterinary Science at the college and a member of the State Board of Health. Sofus Bertelson Nelson, a native of Denmark, an Iowa State College graduate, and Spokane practitioner, is appointed to the post by the Board of Regents. Nelson later serves as Dean of the College of Veterinary Science and in 1919 he resigns to assume the post of Director of Agricultural Extension. In 18 years of service, records show he personally examined 149,182 animals. Cost of the services rendered is $45,000 total. The initial curriculum consists of a series of courses intended to supplement agriculture classes and to provide initial training to students who intend to transfer to another school. The veterinary labs are housed in (old) College Hall and a shed is constructed for $60 on the south end of campus to house the operating rooms.
Glee club debuts
WSC student competes in the first intercollegiate oratoricals
Jessie Hungate takes second place at a regional intercollegiate oratorical contest in Walla Walla, the first such appearance by a State College student in what becomes an annual competition. These involve speeches and singing rather than debating.
The first class graduates
Of the seven graduates, Orin Hector Stratton and Carl Estby become the first WSU Civil Engineering graduates.
Old Ferry Hall burns down
The facility, a five-story brick-and-wood building vilified by President Bryan for its lack of looks and efficiency, burns after a kitchen fire spreads out of control.
The Alumni Association begins
Edward Kimmel, class of 1897, is named the first president.
WSC students begin intercollegiate debates
State College students participate in the first official intercollegiate debates, losing to UW in Seattle by a score of 874-878. In their second debate, on June 9, they defeat Whitman. Two 1898 intercollegiate club debates preceded these school debates.
The first Chinook yearbook is distributed
The yearbook covers the school years from 1892 to 1899. By 1899, there are 481 students enrolled at the college.
Mabel Lambert Taylor is the first female engineering graduate in mechanical engineering.
The “School of Veterinary Science” is born
This major division of the college admits its first class of three students into a three-year curriculum, and this year is considered to be the official birth of today’s College of Veterinary Medicine at Washington State University. In 1902 two of the three original class, Drs. Charles S. Philips and John W. Woods, graduate.
The campus hosts its first summer school session
Committee approves changing school colors from pink and blue to crimson and gray
Catherine Matthews Friel: lifetime proponent and friend
Catherine Matthews Friel is born in Colfax, Washington, in 1901 to Pullman attorney and one-time mayor John W. Matthews and his wife, Serena. Growing up in Pullman, she is dedicates much of her next 101 years to the institution, forming close connections to six presidents, starting with Enoch A. Bryan, and their families.
Football team wins the Northwest Championship
The squad defeats Whitman College, 5-2, in the title-deciding game, a contest played in Walla Walla that attracts 1,200 to 1,400 enthusiastic fans.
William Hurford Lawrence earns the first master’s degree
Lawrence earns a master of science in botany.
The college offers first courses in home economics and pharmacy
Legislature okays name change to State College of Washington
The state legislature approves changing the name of Washington Agricultural College and School of Science to State College of Washington in recognition of the college’s expanding mission. President Bryan has worked tirelessly to fend off political forces that were trying to limit the college’s offering to just agriculture and science. The president believes students need to study liberal arts and science as well as professional fields to be more effective leaders.
Ellen and Olaf Abelson enroll
The Abelsons enroll after building a house where Fulmer Hall now stands. Olaf graduates with a degree in civil engineering in 1909. The Abelsons’ son Phillip later attends WSU and becomes an internationally recognized chemical engineer. Among his accomplishments: he devises a method for large-scale enrichment of uranium for use as power source in submarines, leading to construction of the world’s first atomic submarine.
The First Vet-Pharmic Annual Football Game kicks off a fifty year tradition
The first annual Vet-Pharmic football game is played. The event becomes a major campus attraction until 1957 when concerns for student safety saw the contest end. The Pharmics are said to have won only three to four games over the years. For a time basketball games take the place of the football game but lack of interest causes them to disappear in the 1960s. The annual football game is followed each year by the Hobo Dance. For the dance, male students and faculty grow their beards out in honor of the vagrant namesake of the dance. Dancing, drink, and merriment often flow into the following morning. It too, is done away with in 1957 after a particularly raucous occasion also raises concerns for student safety.
Veterinary Practice Act furthers the profession in Washington State
March 11, the first state Veterinary Practice Act is signed into law granting the governor the power to appoint an examining board composed of three graduate veterinarians, one to be the state veterinarian. All graduate veterinarians in the state are required to show proof of graduation by July 1. Non-graduate veterinarians who’ve practiced in the state for not less than two years are grandfathered in. Interestingly, graduates of human medical schools can become licensed veterinarians in Washington simply by showing proof of graduation.
The college adds education programs
The coursework is introduced with the arrival of Alfred A. Cleveland, assistant professor of psychology. The 1909-1911 course catalog describes the purpose of the education program as training physical science teachers who will further the application of science to industrial pursuits.
President Bryan travels to Europe to recover from typhoid fever
The Board of Regents grants the president 3 months of sick leave to recover. He returns to campus feeling refreshed from his first extended vacation since arriving in Pullman in 1893. The incident forces Bryan to realize he needs to share major administrative responsibilities, so he appoints faculty member O.L. Waller as his first vice president.
Hall name honors first female faculty member
Van Doren Hall is built to house the domestic economy department. The building name honors Nancy Van Doren, an English instructor and the campus librarian.
Veterinary Hospital
Owing to the importance of Veterinary Science a new three story, brick veterinary science building is erected on the Pullman campus. Later known as the Administrative Annex, the structure, which sat on the western edge of the historic campus core, was torn down in 2009.
Campus dedicates Entrance Arch
The arch, located over the Opal Street entrance to campus, is a gift from the class of 1905. The arch is razed in 1955 and some of the rock is included in the Stadium Way entrance sign. The rock is maintained through various reworkings of that sign and entrance until 2015, when it is removed entirely.
Alumni publish first issue of POWWOW
Powwow (or Pow Wow) is the journal of/for the alumni of Washington State College/Washington State University. It’s published through 1969. The journal is renamed numerous times, but always retains the word Powwow (or Pow Wow) in the title except for the years 1924-1935, when it is known simply as the Alumnus.
Rhoda White serves as first dean of women
Rudolph Weaver becomes first architecture professor and first university architect
Weaver designed Carpenter, Wilson, Community, McCroskey, and Stimson halls, as well as the president’s residence. He also designed what is now the Lewis Alumni Center.
Training west coast architects
The college establishes an architecture program, one of the first on the West Coast, after the University of California at Berkeley.
The Crimson Circle, a social organization for WSU senior men, begins
The group inaugurates an annual song, yell, and skit competition in 1914. J. DeForest Cline writes “Washington, My Washington” for the initial contest. The piece is chosen as the WSC alma mater in 1919.
Community joins forces for first Campus Day event
Students and faculty replace wooden walkways with paved sidewalks during the first Campus Day event. On this day each spring for about 20 years, classes are canceled and the entire student body forms work parties to improve the physical appearance of campus.
The president’s house opens
The house is built for a total cost of $25,000.
Campus celebrates first homecoming
The football team vanquishes the Whitman College Fighting Missionaries, 23–0.
Conner Museum named after Regent who kickstarted it
In November of 1893, Board of Regents chair Charles R. Conner persuades the state and others to donate their exhibits from the Chicago World’s Fair to the fledgling Washington Agricultural College. In 1914, the museum is officially named after Conner. As the collection evolves in the following years it focuses on vertebrate mammals. Now housed in Abelson Hall, the Conner Museum displays 700 specimens, with more than 65,000 in its research library.
Alumnus Harry T. Graves named Acting Commissioner of Agriculture for the State of Washington
The Associated Students create “The Bookie”
The Associated Students vote to invest $2,000 in a co-op bookstore on campus which will sell books, supplies, and, as an Evergreen ad from that year notes, “hot chocolate, milk shakes, ice cream, soft drinks, and sandwiches.” The Students’ Book Corporation (SBC) becomes an instant hit for students who save 10 percent on all supplies.
Smith-Lever Act establishes national university extension program
The act links cooperative extension services to land-grant universities. The program is designed to keep citizens informed about developments in agriculture, home economics, public policy, economic development, and other subjects.
Veterinarians stop potential Foot-and-Mouth disease outbreak in Spokane
Two cars of cattle en route from Wisconsin to Roy, Wash. arrive in Spokane. Animal health officials were previously warned that the animals were exposed to foot-and-mouth disease in a St. Paul, Minn. stockyard. Quick action on the part of veterinarians, state agricultural officials, and a cooperative owner, stopped a potential outbreak before it could happen. The positive diagnosis was made on Nov. 16 and by Nov. 21 all the cattle were destroyed and cremated and all temporary holding pens, litter, etc.were burned.
William “Lone Star” Dietz joins WSC to coach football
Dietz arrives on campus to take over the reins of a football program that hasn’t compiled a winning record in five seasons. He transforms the squad into a juggernaut that finishes 7-0 and holds opponents to a total of 10 points for the season. The historic year culminates with a WSC blanking of Brown, 14-0, in the 1916 Rose Bowl.
Adams County deeds 320 acres to establish the Dryland Research Station
The station, near Lind, Washington, promotes and improves dryland farming in an area of eastern Washington that typically receives 8 to 12 inches of rain a year. Wheat breeding, variety adaptation, weed and disease control, soil fertility, erosion control, and residue management are the main research priorities.
Regents select Ernest O. Holland as fourth president
The new president is 41, a former instructor in the English department at Indiana University who is serving as superintendent of schools in Louisville, Kentucky, when he is hired by the college.
WSC beats Brown, 14-0, in Rose Bowl
A crowd of 10,000 in Pasadena watches as undefeated Washington State shuts out Brown in the second Rose Bowl game ever played. Coach William “Lone Star” Dietz and his Cougar squad serve as extras in the football film “Tom Brown of Harvard” each morning and then hit the practice field in the afternoon during the two weeks leading up to the bowl game. Each player receives $100 for the 14 mornings of movie work.
The college names Bryan Hall library and auditorium
Though originally dedicated on June 9, 1909, a 1916 naming ceremony honors the presidential contributions of E.A. Bryan, who led the college from 1893 to 1915. Designed by respected Spokane architect J. K. Dow and built in 1908 and 1909, the highly eclectic building was is not dominated by a single architectural style. The broad bracketed eaves and the round arched windows link it with the Italianate Style. The tall clock tower is related to the Italian Campanile. The elaborate bracketing under the eaves may have resulted from an oriental inspiration.
First continuing education program for veterinarians begins in Pullman
The program is sponsored by the college and assisted by the fledgling state association and northwest veterinarians.
Men’s basketball team achieves season for the ages
Legendary coach and athletic director J. Fred “Doc” Bohler leads the Crimson and Gray to a 25-1 record during the 1916-17 season, the best record in school history. The team features the core of Bohler’s outstanding 1915-16 squad: Roy Bohler (captain and brother of the coach), Ed Copeland, Bob Moss, Ivan Price, and Al Sorenson. The team’s accomplishment is even more remarkable considering it plays 18 of 26 games on the road.
World War I overshadows the college
Two-thirds of the student body has disappeared from campus following the country’s entry into World War I in April 1917. More than 700 students and alumni are in the military or naval service or working to produce food and war materials for American military forces, allies, and the home front.
WSC creates the Graduate School
C.C. Todd, professor of chemistry, serves as the founding dean. Although authorized in 1917, the school doesn’t get under way until 1922, after a few of the best researchers voluntarily organize themselves into a research council.
Class project delivers Cougar fight song
Zella Melcher writes the lyrics and Phyllis Sayles pens the music to the well-loved song, which receives a ringing endorsement from the Evergreen when it’s sung for the first time February 20 at a school assembly.
State passes law requiring students to take at least 90 minutes per week of physical education
The 1920s bring the enactment of legislation that requires compulsory physical education in the high schools of many states. This leads to the development of a degree program at WSC to train students as physical and recreation directors, playground supervisors, and athletic coaches.
Alumni Association names Harry Chambers first secretary
Chambers is a 1913 graduate and WSC instructor in economics. One of the first priorities of his new job: formation of a council tasked with bringing the college and alumni “into a closer union, that each might serve the other and with the two working in harmony might give more efficient service to the state,” according to the Evergreen.
WSC reorganizes into 5 colleges and 4 schools
In June 1917, President Holland announces that the institution will reorganize into 5 colleges (Agriculture, Mechanical Arts and Engineering, Science and Arts, Veterinary Science, and Home Economics) and 4 schools (Mines, Education, Pharmacy, and Music and Applied Design), with deans as administrative heads. The College of Home Economics is to be one of the first of its kind in the nation. However, World War I interrupts these plans, delaying implementation of the new structure to the 1919-1920 school year.
The cougar becomes the official mascot of WSC
On October 25, an underdog WSC football team travels to Berkeley and defeats the heavily favored California Bears, 14-0. After the game, a Bay Area sportswriter says the visitors “played like cougars!” Back in Pullman, a jubilant student body picks up on the idea, and three days later votes to select the name “Cougars” for its athletic teams.
President Taft visits campus
Presents student awards, delivers speech
Former United States President William Howard Taft speaks briefly and presents a few student awards at Rogers Field in the afternoon, then delivers a speech titled “Capital, Labor, and the Soviet” that evening in Bryan Auditorium.
Winfred A. Jordan, first African-American Student, graduates with a degree in Veterinary Science
Jordan was a transfer student from the then soon-to-close San Francisco Veterinary College.
WSU celebrates its first Women’s Day
The new “Women’s Day” incorporates female athletics into what previously had been known as the “May Fete,” an event typically centered on artistic presentations including theater, oratory, and dance, plus a May Queen pageant. The first May Fete took place in 1910.
Emerson Anton Ehmer establishes the first small animal hospital in Seattle
Ehmer, a 1918 WSC graduate, goes on to a distinguished career in the development and advancement of veterinary orthopedics. Today his original Seattle Dog and Cat Hospital is known as the Seattle Emergency Hospital.
KFAE goes on the air
The radio station begins broadcasting from the Mechanic Arts Building, thanks to financial support from the Agricultural Extension Service, the Associated Students, and the Pullman Chamber of Commerce.
WSC receives a Mortar Board charter, the first organization to honor senior college women
Mortar Board, a national women’s honorary, grants a charter to WSC’s Gamma Tau organization. Gamma Tau is founded in May 1913 as a WSC women’s senior honorary.
Henry Heald graduates
Henry Heald, the namesake of Heald Hall on the Pullman campus, graduates with a degree in civil engineering. He later becomes president of Illinois Tech, New York University, and the Ford Foundation.
Stanley Albert Smith becomes professor and head of the department of architecture
Smith replaced Weaver as Campus Architect, and as such worked as professor, architect, and construction manager for many projects on and off-campus. These included Commons, completion of Troy Hall (begun by architect Julius Zittel), rebuilding the barn now called Lewis Alumni Center, (following destruction by fire), Duncan Dunn Hall, Bohler Gym, Memorial Hospital, White Hall, Hollingberry Field House, Stock Judging Pavilion, Waller Hall, Steam Plant, Pine Manor, Wilmer-Davis Hall, and Smith Gym. Smith also prepared preliminary architectural work for several buildings on which the main architectural work was done by commissioned architectural firms.
Worth Griffin helps WSC create an art program
Well-known portraiturist Worth D. Griffin steps off the train in Pullman to teach design and creative composition and help build WSC’s art program, which is barely four years old and staffed by just one other full-time faculty member.
Library’s volumes surpass 100,000
The library’s volumes total 104,000, up from 17,000 in 1909, under the guidance of W.W. Foote. By 1935 the library holds 275,000 volumes, and by 1936 it is considered the fourth-largest educational library on the Pacific Coast.
Earl Foster: the man who built WSU’s athletic plant and hired some of its most famous coaches
Foster begins a 21-year tenure at the college as graduate manager and later, athletic director. He plays a pivotal role in the construction of almost every major sports facility on campus, including Bohler Gymnasium, Hollingbery Fieldhouse, and the original university golf course, and oversees enlargement of the football stadium.
The College of Veterinary Science becomes the College of Veterinary Medicine
Herbert “Butch” Meeker stars on the gridiron
Five-foot-five, 150-pound quarterback Herbert “Butch” Meeker becomes an instant Cougar legend after leading his 1-3-1 team to a stunning 17-12 win over a good USC team in Los Angeles—Washington State’s first-ever win over the Trojans. The team returns to Pullman and is treated to a hero’s welcome, with students let out of class to go to the Union Pacific depot to greet the players’ train.
WSC closes its “elementary education” program
The decision ends a program implemented not long after WSC’s founding to offer high school-level coursework to teenagers in the era before high schools became commonplace in Washington. The primary non-college program began as the Preparatory School, was retitled the Elementary School in 1905, and later became the Department of Elementary Science. Several other programs offering pre-college level coursework existed side-by-side with their college-level counterparts, including ones in agriculture, artisanship, and business.
Legendary coach Babe Hollingbery kicks off his Cougar career
Orin Ercel “Babe” Hollingbery begins a 17-year stint as head coach of the Cougar football team and earns legendary status in the process. He compiles a career win-loss record of 93–53–14, the most wins by any coach in Cougar football history. Under Hollingbery, Washington State goes undefeated at home from 1926 to 1935. He guides the team to the 1931 Rose Bowl against Alabama.
WSC launches its first career placement services
N.J. Aiken, head of the WSC vocational school and professor of business administration, launches the placement service. During the Great Depression, N.J. is commonly known as “No Job” Aiken.
Silver Lake, also known as Lake de Puddle, is drained
A fondly remembered place on campus, Silver Lake, also known as Lake de Puddle, was drained in summer of 1927. This made way for Hollingbery Fieldhouse and Mooberry Track. The manmade lake became part of the college in 1899, and shortly after the creation of the 1.6-acre lake, Professor Balmer from the School of Forestry directed the transplanting to the site of some 6,000 trees and shrubs to create “The Tanglewood”, a dense thicket offering a private retreat for students.
WSC receive a Phi Beta Kappa charter
Phi Beta Kappa, the nation’s oldest and most prestigious academic honors organization, grants a charter to WSC. The chapter is one of the first founded at a land-grant university.
Home Ec building opens
The building opens with “all the latest in equipment.” Later it’s renamed White Hall in honor of Mary Elmina White, who served 33 years as a WSC cooperative extension leader. In 2000, White Hall is remodeled to include a 117-student, 67-room dormitory area for Honors Program students. White Hall is renamed Honors Hall in fall semester 2001.
La Verne Almon Barnes receives first doctorate
La Verne Almon Barnes of Opportunity, Washington, receives WSC’s first Ph.D. He writes a dissertation titled Studies in Local Immunity and receives his doctorate was in bacteriology. Barnes earned his bachelor’s and master’s, also in bacteriology, at Washington State.
Mabel Adams is the first woman to graduate in Civil Engineering
President Holland establishes a faculty and graduate student journal
Research Studies of the State College of Washington provides an avenue to publication for faculty and graduate students. The journal publishes a few issues before funding is cut due to the Great Depression. It is revived in 1935 and eventually becomes the WSU Press.
Edward R. Murrow graduates
He earns a degree in degree in speech while immersing himself in the campus culture during his four years in Pullman. Among his activities: president of the student body, actor in school plays, four-year participant in ROTC, debate team leader, member of Kappa Sigma fraternity, and president of the National Student Federation.
Hein and Edwards: First Team All-Americans
Mel Hein and Glen “Turk” Edwards receive the honor after anchoring the Cougar defensive line and leading the team to a 9-0 regular season record and a spot in the 1931 Rose Bowl against Alabama.
Cougars reach Rose Bowl a second time
The previously undefeated Cougars fall to Alabama, 24-0, a game attended by an estimated 60,000 fans on a drizzly New Year’s Day in Pasadena.
College of Veterinary Medicine maintains unbroken accreditation
The American Veterinary Medical Association begins accreditation of veterinary colleges. WSC’s College of Veterinary Medicine is immediately accredited and has maintained uninterrupted accreditation ever since.
How I make both ends meet
Cougs have a long history of figuring out ways to save money while attending school during tight economic times. In the winter of 1932, during the Great Depression, WSC President E.O. Holland organizes an essay contest for students titled “How I Economized Last Semester.” Peter E. Kragt, a freshman from Lynden, Washington, wins the contest with his story about building a cabin on Route 1 right before the beginning of classes.
WSC introduces hospitality program
The program begins with the goal of “training men in hotel operations and women in dietetics.” As the program grows and expands during the next 83 years, it evolves into one of the top hospitality programs in the nation, preparing students for leadership roles in the hospitality industry around the world.
The Great Depression hammers WSC
As the Great Depression deepens, the college is forced to reduce the salaries of faculty and staff by an average of 25 percent in order to meet reduced state appropriations. The budget granted to WSC for 1933-1935 through the legislature’s “barefoot schoolboy” measures represents a cut of 36.5 percent over previous budgets.
“Father of the atomic submarine” graduates with a degree in chemistry
Phillip Abelson graduates in chemistry and two years later earns his master’s degree in physics from WSC. He is later recognized as the “father of the atomic submarine”, the co-discoverer of neptunium (element 93), and later serves as editor of Science magazine and president of the Carnegie Institution. He is also the first recipient of the WSU Regent’s Distinguished Alumni Award. He is the son of Olaf and Elle Abelson, who first attended WSC in 1905 and built a home where Fulmer Hall now stands. The Philip M. Abelson Hall was named in his and his wife’s honor in 2002.
Catherine Elizabeth Roberts is the first female veterinarian graduate from WSC
Roberts goes on to be the first licensed female veterinarian in California and is among only 12 in the nation at the time.
T. C. Jones graduates; in 1957 the distinguished veterinary pathologist will co-author the first edition of the landmark text Veterinary Pathology
Walter Clore, WSU horticulturalist, kick starts Washington wine industry
After coming to WSC in 1934 on a horticulture fellowship, Walter Clore joined the WSU Irrigation Branch Experiment Station in 1937. He started out working with tree fruits and small fruits, but eventually became transfixed by Washington’s potential for wine grape production. Clore went on to encourage Washington farmers to grow vinifera grapes and worked as a winery consultant after his retirement in 1976. Clore passed away in January of 2003.
Clarence Zener, inventor of Zener diode, establishes the first degree program in physical metallurgy, the forerunner to materials science and engineering
The first degree program in physical metallurgy, forerunner for today’s materials science and engineering program, is established by Clarence Zener, inventor of the Zener diode.
On the air, the West Coast radio broadcast highlights the 45th Founder’s Day
On the air, the West Coast radio broadcast highlights the 45th Founder’s Day. The Alumni Association sponsored the occasion.
Tragedy ends proposed national debate
A famous national debate almost happens between Claudius O. Johnson, chair of the WSC Political Science Department and humorist / actor Will Rogers. Johnson gives a speech for the Pullman PTA in December of 1932, and in the course of the evening cautions people against accepting Rogers’ expertise on foreign policy issues. Some of his comments are soon reprinted in the Pullman Herald, and several people forward copies of the article to Rogers. The comedian sends a telegram back to the Pullman Herald, threatening to come up and debate Johnson. The offer is gleefully accepted, and for many months thereafter the proposed debate is both bandied about in the press and discussed in telegrams between Johnson and Rogers. Will Rogers describes the debate as “Ignorance vs. Knowledge – and I’m going to be Ignorance.”
WSC adds Women’s Gym and two more residence halls
Construction begins on the Women’s Gym, now known as Smith Gym, and on Davis and Wilmer residence halls.
Lee twins sport their WSC shirts
One day in 1936, Betty Lee and her twin sister Peggy, about four years old, posed for their mother in the Washington State College shirts given to them by Carl Morrow, then Dean of Men at WSU.
Students take to the streets to protest the ultra-conservative policies at WSC
In May, 1936 more than 2,500 students protested the “ultra-conservative, dictatorial administrative policies,” including policies put in place by the dean of women, Annie Fertig. After the protest, Fertig was asked to take leave without pay and was later fired by President Holland. Fertig claimed the students were protesting policies that didn’t exist, like rules against wearing red dresses or using blankets during picnics. On May 8th, the Evergreen summed up the results of the protest in an article titled “All Requests Are Granted.”
WSC art student, Randall Johnson, creates the first cougar head logo
In the summer of 1936, Randall Johnson, a fine arts student at Washington State College, was hired as a sign painter by Fred Rounds, director of Buildings and Grounds. Johnson’s job was to paint door numbers and names on buildings around campus.
The football stadium at Rogers Field gets a complete renovation
The football stadium at Rogers Field gets a complete renovation. The new horseshoe-shaped structure is named for former Washington State Governor, John R. Rogers. The wood bleachers supported by concrete pilings seat 23,500 fans.
WSC boxing team goes to the championships
The men’s boxing team are national champions. WSC sent four boxers to the championship and all four reached the finals. Ed McKinnen and Roy “Pooch” Petragallo won national titles to give the Cougars the national championship. Longtime boxing coach Issac “Ike” Deeter coached the 1937 team.
Herbert Kimbrough serves as Assistant to the President after Dr. Holland takes ill
President Holland falls ill in early January and for several months runs the school from his bed in St. Luke’s Hospital in Spokane. When he leaves for an April to August recuperative trip to the eastern U.S. and Canada, Holland and the Regents appoint Dean Herbert Kimbrough to act on his behalf, and on Oct. 2nd Kimbrough is made the school’s first Vice President.
Marshall Allen Neill, future Washington State Supreme Court justice, graduates with a B.A. in political science.
Marshall Allen Neill, future Justice of the Washington State Supreme Court, graduates with a B.A. in Political Science. In 1938, Neill received his law degree from the University of Idaho. He engaged in private practice in Pullman from 1938 to 1967, and during this time he also served as Pullman City attorney, assistant attorney general for Washington State University, part-time assistant professor at WSU, state representative (1949-1956) and state senator (1956-1967). In 1967 Neill was appointed to Associate Justice in the Supreme Court of Washington, and in 1972, President Nixon appointed him to the prestigious U.S. District Court in Spokane, a post he held until his death on October 6, 1979.
WSC and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service team up to study diseases in fur bearing animals
Following a series of discussions between J. E. Schillinger, superintendent of disease control for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Dean E. E. Wegner of the College of Veterinary Medicine at WSC, a cooperative agreement was signed whereby the U.S. Bureau of Biological Survey and the college embark on research work into the diseases of fur bearing animals. Frank McKenney is the first veterinarian employed to start the work. The relationship now under the administration of the USDA continues today.
WSC gets a ski jump
WSC gets its own on-campus ski jump
WSC builds a ski jump on campus near the east end of what’s now the CUB. It runs down the hill towards what’s now the Football Operations Building and was reportedly one of only two ski jumps on college campuses in the United States. During World War II, the jump became part of the obstacle course for the fittest of the soldiers; it was even displayed in Life Magazine (Oct. 12, 1942, pg. 142).
Weldon B. “Hoot” Gibson graduates with a B.A. in economics
Weldon B. “Hoot” Gibson graduates with a B.A. in Economics. Gibson attended WSC with the help of his Uncle, Arthur “Buck” Bailey, and was a member of the football team and the Beta Theta Pi fraternity. After graduating from WSC, Gibson studied at the Stanford Graduate School of Business receiving an MBA in 1940 and a Ph.D. in 1950. Gibson was a long-time executive at the Stanford Research Institute from 1947 until 1988. He earned the Legion of Merit in 1946, Commander of the British Empire in 1947, and the Washington State University Distinguished Alumni Award for his role in creating the Washington State University Foundation.
School of Social Work opens at WSC
President Holland creates Friends of the Library program to support library programs
In 1938, President Holland created the Friends of the Library, a fundraising program that directly supports the purchase of collection pieces and equipment for the WSU libraries. This program was the first such organization in the west. With the help of this program, Holland purchased facsimiles of a portrait of Lincoln and his Gettysburg Address and sent them to 204 banks in Washington as well as purchased all 28 volumes of Frederick Hill Meserve’s Historical Portraits.
Allen I. White fights to increase pharmacy enrollment
Allen I. White served as a professor of pharmacy at WSU from 1940 to 1979. In 1960, he was appointed dean of the College of Pharmacy, a position which he held until retirement nineteen years later. White was best known for his devotion to working with students, faculty, colleagues, and the health care profession.
The School of Business Administration opens at WSC
The School of Business Administration is created, separating it from the College of Science and Arts.
The Cougar basketball team finishes as the runner-up for the NCAA title
Coach Jack Friel’s men’s basketball team finishes as the runner-up for the NCAA title, losing in the championship game to Wisconsin, 39-34.
The Board of Regents establishes WSC’s first retirement system
After several years of trying to get state funding, the Board of Regents establishes WSC’s first retirement system, to begin on October 1st of 1941.
WSC trains soldiers to meet the challenges of World War II
Soon after Pearl Harbor is attacked, the college began training soldiers to meet the challenges of World War II. Aviation, Japanese language, signal corps, radio, and gunnery are taught under government contract.
Cougar football suspended for the duration of WWII
WSC Creamery produces the first can of Cougar Gold Cheese
In the late 1930s, the WSC Creamery wanted to find a new way to store cheese. Wax cracked easily and plastic hadn’t been invented. The only option left was cans. In the 1940s, the U.S. Government and the American Can Company funded WSC’s research into storing cheese in cans.
Well-respected professor Charles M. Drake inspires students for 36 years
Charles H. Drake was a popular, well-respected professor at Washington State University for 36 years. His introductory class in bacteriology attracted many non-science majors as well as students preparing for careers in health care. In his lectures, he displayed an acute sense of humor and love of puns. In 1989, the Drakes created a trust to provide assistance for WSU graduate students and postdoctoral researchers in microbial ecology. He was 86 when he died on May 20, 2002 in Pullman.
Wilson M. Compton named fifth president of WSC
On August 21, 1944, the Board of Regents selected Wilson M. Compton to serve as the fifth president. Compton accepted the position in October, leaving his position as an administrator and lobbyist for the lumber industry in Washington D.C.
Liberty ship named after WSC president explodes at naval base
Disastrous end to a ship honoring E.A. Bryan has significant social impact.
The 7,212 ton liberty ship E.A. Bryan, named after the former WSC president and funded by Washington State 4-H Club members, explodes while workers load it with explosives. The ship had been dedicated to former 4-H Club members who were then serving in the War.
Arthur Drucker, Dean of the School of Mines and Geology, donates the Minnie Barstow Drucker Oriental Art Collection to WSC
Arthur Drucker, Dean of the School of Mines and Geology, donates the Minnie Barstow Drucker Oriental Art Collection, valued then at $50,000. The gift is presented in the memory of his late wife. Eight years earlier, the Druckers donated a collection of over two hundred rare books on Asia to the WSC library. Arthur Drucker came to Pullman in 1926 and was heavily involved in mining research during his tenure at WSC, retiring in 1945.
Kemble Stout joins the WSU music department
Kemble Stout moved to Pullman in 1945, beginning his 34-year association with the WSU music department. After briefly returning to the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York to finish his Ph.D. in 1951, he was elected the department chair at WSU and served in the role for 16 years. Stout wrote 50 musical compositions and arrangements, performed in two piano duos and other faculty ensembles, and for two decades directed the Greystone Presbyterian Church choir.
Don Adams leads pioneering air pollution research
Don Adams, founder of the Laboratory for Atmospheric Research, developed and patented an analyzer that measures atmospheric gases. Adams led pioneering research in the measurements of air pollution and its effects from lumber mills and smelters after being asked to put aside his research in extracting alumina from clay to investigate complaints about lumber mill odor. In the 1960’s, he was able to demonstrate for the first time that sulfur emissions were causing downwind die-offs of pine trees.
WSC establishes the Institute of Technology
The Regents approve the establishment of Washington State College’s Institute of Technology. In a 1986 oral history, Eugene Greenfield, who directed the Institute’s Division of Industrial Research starting in 1958, explained that the purpose of the institute was to “find technological means for inducing a larger industrial output in the State of Washington.’’
WSU imports temporary buildings to house returning soldier students
Post-WWII construction at WSC was marked by the importing of many temporary buildings to handle the boom of returning soldier students. Many of these buildings came from the Farragut Naval Training Station near Coeur d’Alene, ID while others came from Vancouver, WA. These buildings were torn down by the mid 1990s.
Military veterans enroll as students
A surge in military veterans enrolling as students results in admission requirements imposed to manage enrollment.
Enrollment at WSC exceeds 5,000 students
As World War II comes to an end, enrollment at WSC passes 5,000, signifying the return of G.I.s and a drop in war-related employment.
Timothy Leary, troubled psychologist and counterculture figure of the 1960s, graduates from WSC
Timothy Leary, a troubled psychologist and popular counterculture figure of the 1960s, who coined the phrase “think for yourself and question authority” and was once called “the most dangerous man in America” by Richard Nixon, graduates with a master’s of science in psychology from WSC. Leary only attends WSC for about a year, moving to Pullman in early 1946, gaining admittance in March of that year, and graduating in June of 1947. He and his wife Marianne lived in a house at the corner of C Street and Alpha Road, enjoying what one biographer would later call “the only uneventful period of their life together.”
Construction begins on Holland Library
Helen Compton renovates Priest Lake “resort” for WSC faculty and staff
President Wilson Compton and his wife Helen use their own money to purchase a 52 acre mostly-undeveloped “resort” on Priest Lake’s Beaver Creek, for the use of WSC faculty and staff. Over the next few years Helen, with aid from her housekeeper Mary Warner, puts a significant amount of time and effort into renovating it. Individual lots are sold to WSC faculty and staff, and the resort is organized as the Beaver Creek Camp Association. As generations pass the BCCA’s ties to WSU have faded, but the Beaver Creek Camp Association still exists today on upper Priest Lake.
College of Veterinary Medicine awards its first graduate degree
John Gorham, a 1946 graduate, earns his Masters of Science Degree in pathology under D. R. Cordy. Later the pair go on to discover a rickettsia that is the cause of salmon disease in dogs and foxes.
Bill Tomaras revamps high school wrestling programs in Washington
In 1948, Bill Tomaras was hired as the wrestling coach at Washington State College. At the time only ten high schools offered wrestling and he soon realized the need for a feeder program if wrestling was to succeed at WSC. With that in mind, he organized the first state high school wrestling tournament in 1953 using funds donated by Cougr wrestlers and free room and board from fraternities. Tomaras would also load his own wrestlers into cars during spring break and drive across the state to put on exhibitions and talk up the benefits of wrestling programs at high schools.
The Board of Regents approves a new athletic code, separating student activities and intercollegiate athletics
The first Junior Review is presented to the veterinary faculty and students.
It is a lighthearted series of skits and musical presentations which lampoon the authority figures connected with veterinary education in Washington.
Wood Materials and Engineering Laboratory, WMEL, is founded
Elmer Leonard, WSC class of ’49, spends years as teacher and administrator
After graduating with his degree in physical education, Elmer F. Leonard spent many years as a teacher and administrator, eventually retiring in 1983 as superintendent of schools for the East Valley School District in Moxee.
“The Reader” sculpture debuts on campus
Washington State University’s sculpture “The Reader” made its first appearance on campus in 1949. Located on one corner of the Holland Library, the 30-foot limestone figure was almost instantly dubbed “Nature Boy” by the students. Some thought the sculpture was beautiful, while others didn’t like it.
Paul Castleberry, influential political scientist and mentor, serves as a faculty member in the department of political science
Paul Castleberry was a faculty member in the WSU Department of Political Science from 1949 to 1983. He taught courses in American government, international law and organization, and American foreign policy for 34 years at WSU and taught overseas in Egypt and Turkey under Fulbright scholarships and in Paris and London as part of a study abroad program. Castleberry was acting chair of WSU’s political science department in 1957 and 1961-62, and chair from 1964 to 1968. He was also active in the University Senate and as chair of the International Education Committee, directed two Institutes of World Affairs, and was co-founder of the Northwest Inter-Institutional Study Abroad Program.
WSC police department forms after state legislature authorizes WSC Board of Regents that power
The State Legislature gives the WSC Board of Regents the power to develop a police department. H.E. Sims is the initial acting chief.
President Emeritus Holland leaves a gift of $72,000, library, and art collection to WSC
President Holland’s full estate, by then $410,000, would come to WSU in 1964.
Cougar baseball finishes second in College World Series
The 1950 Cougar Baseball team finished second in the fourth College World Series and the first to be held in what would become its permanent home, Omaha, Nebraska. The Cougs finished the season with a 32-6 record. They defeated Tufts, Alabama, and Rutgers in the World Series, but fell to Texas in their final two games. The 1950 team was the first of four Cougar baseball teams (as of 2015) to represent WSU at the College World Series.
Camp Easter Seal, later called Camp Larson, opens on Lake Coeur d’Alene
Camp Easter Seal, also known as Camp Manitowish and later renamed as Camp Larson, is established on Lake Coeur d’Alene’s Cottonwood Bay by Professor Roger Larson. For over 50 years, both the Easter Seals and WSU education students use the site as a field school in their studies. WSU sold the property in 2005 to the Coeur d’Alene Tribe.
Plant pathologist Frederick Heald donates his personal library to WSC
Plant pathologist Frederick Heald donates his personal library to WSC, including 300 volumes and 10,000 reprints in plant pathology.
Edward R. Murrow narrates “This is WSC”
"This is WSC" promotional film narrated by Edward R. Murrow.
In 1950, WSC produced a 23 minute promotional video designed to be shown in high schools as a recruitment tool. The film was narrated by former Cougar, Edward R. Murrow.
WSU researcher reports berry plant developed at Puyallup Research Center added $15 million to state’s wealth
J.W. Kalkus, superintendent of the college’s Puyallup Research Center, reported that “one new berry plant developed at the station has added $15 million to the state’s wealth during the last 10 years.”
Budget cuts cut deep
In the face of state budget cuts, the Regents order Compton to dismiss 182 employees, including the vice president. Compton resigns.
Vishnu N. Bhatia helps build the Honors Program and International Education
Vishnu N. Bhatia served as a teacher, administrator, innovator, and ambassador at WSU for 47 years. His chosen field was pharmacy, but he also served as the head of the Honors Program from 1964 to 1993 and as the director of International Education from 1973 to 1990.
After President Compton resigns, William Pearl serves as acting president for WSC
After President Compton resigns, William Pearl serves as acting president of WSC for a period of six-and-a-half months.
WSC ski team places first in the Northern Division, the Pacific Coast Conference, and the North American International Intercollegiate Tournament
In 1952 the Washington State College ski team placed first in the Northern Division, the Pacific Coast Conference, and the North American International Intercollegiate Tournament in Banff, Alberta.
C. Clement French named sixth president of WSU
On February 24, 1952, the Board of Regents selected C. Clement French to serve as the sixth president of Washington State University. He took the office April of that year, combining his inauguration with commencement.
Eugene “Pat” Patterson is named Director of Alumni Relations
McCoy and Wegner Halls named
The animal clinic and classroom-laboratory buildings (both constructed in the early 1940s) are named after J. E. McCoy and E. E. Wegner, respectively. Each had served as dean of the veterinary college during their careers. In 1972 a two-story addition is built on McCoy Hall. The space is used primarily for faculty offices and research
Philip Phibbs, a future president of University of Puget Sound, graduates a top scholastic student
Philip Phibbs graduates a top scholastic student. Phibbs later becomes president of University of Puget Sound in 1973, helping transform the institution into one of the top liberal arts colleges in the country.
WSC establishes world-class radiology facilities
Modern, powerful equipment is installed including a GE Maximar 250 III with medical x-ray head, mounted on an electrically operated jib crane. A diagnostic unit manufactured by Standard X-ray Co. is mounted from the ceiling. Upon completion, the WSC veterinary x-ray facility is the best in the country and perhaps the world.
Edward R. Murrow, WSU alumnus, challenges Senator Joseph McCarthy on national television
On March 9, 1954, Edward R. Murrow spoke out against Senator Joseph McCarthy on his CBS program, See It Now. McCarthy had taken it upon himself to investigate communism in the U.S. government and had made allegations of treachery and subversion against many innocent people, ruining their careers and lives. Murrow was adamant that he speak out against McCarthy and ended up playing a key role in the senator’s political downfall.
Legendary sportscaster Keith Jackson graduates from WSU
Keith Jackson, president of Crimson Circle, outstanding senior student, and chief announcer at KWSC (now KWSU), graduated from WSU and began a world-class career as a sportscaster.
Two WSC students win Rhodes Scholarships
Two WSC students, Richard Thompson and Russell McCormmach, were the only representatives from land-grant colleges among the 64 U.S. students to win Rhodes Scholarships in these two years.
WSC ties San Jose, 13-13, in a football game played in subzero temperatures in Pullman
WSC ties San Jose, 13-13, in a football game played in subzero temperatures in Pullman. Exactly one game ticket was sold at the gate.
WSU faculty team up to build analog music synthesizer
David Seamans, who joined the electrical engineering faculty in 1954 (and retired in 1992), taught the first computer hardware course on campus. In 1956 or 1957, Seamans worked with William Grant, a professor of music, to build an analog music synthesizer.
Scientists Leo Jensen and Igor Kosin refine the hatch process, which will return $9 million in annual savings to turkey producers
Nutritionist Leo Jensen and geneticist Igor Kosin refine the hatch process for turkeys, which dramatically increases the survivability of turkey eggs and returns an estimated $9 million in annual savings to turkey producers.
Humorist and outdoor writer Patrick McManus graduates WSC
Patrick McManus, humorist and outdoor writer for Outdoor Life, Field & Stream and other magazines, graduates with a B.A. in English from WSC in the Class of 1956.
WSC graduate Pete Rademacher wins the Olympic heavyweight boxing title
WSC graduate Pete Rademacher wins the Olympic heavyweight boxing title, knocking out the Russian finalist in the first round in Melbourne, Australia.
Frances Penrose Owen named to the Board of Regents
Frances Penrose Owen is the first women named to the Board of Regents, she served for 18 years and was twice elected president. The Owen Science and Engineering Library is named in her honor. Owen was a life-long community volunteer, serving the boards of both the Seattle Childrens Hospital and the Seattle School Board. In 1990, Owen receives the Medal of Merit, the state’s highest award. Frances Penrose Owen passed away on March 9, 2002 in Seattle. She was 102.
WSU archaeologist Richard Daugherty and his students excavate two house pits near Lower Monumental Dam
In the 1950s Congress approved the building of four dams on the lower Snake River in Washington. Archaeologists surveyed the area for sites that would be destroyed by the new reservoir and found eleven habitation sites, including the Marmes rock shelter where the Marmes Man would later be found.
WSU begins instruction in computing, one of the earliest programs in the field.
Computer science became a full-fledged department in 1969 and graduates students at the B.S., M.S., and PhD levels.
History professor Herbert Wood gives the first WSC faculty member-led “Invited Address,” known today as the Distinguished Faculty Address
History professor Herbert Wood gives the first WSC faculty member-led “Invited Address,” known today as the Distinguished Faculty Address.
George Marra, WSU wood technologist, develops a high speed lamination process capable of producing a weatherproof beam in seven minutes
George Marra, WSU wood technologist, develops a high speed lamination process capable of producing a weatherproof beam in seven minutes.
From WSC to WSU
Washington State College officially becomes Washington State University.
WSU establishes the Honors Program
The Honors Program is established under Sidney Hacker, professor of mathematics. In 2001, a grand opening was held for Honors Hall (formerly White Hall), the new home of the nationally-acclaimed WSU Honors College.
The WSU boxing program ends as all national programs close
The WSU boxing program, started by coach Issac “Ike” Deeter in 1932, ended after the 1959-1960 school year. The NCAA closed all college programs in 1961 following a death at an NCAA tournament a year earlier. A shortage of opponents in the west coast also spelled doom for the boxing program as transportation costs continued to rise.
Dr. John Fred Bohler, coach, athletic director, and administrator passes away
Dr. John Fred Bohler passes away. He served as a basketball coach, athletic director, and physical education administrator at WSU for 42 years.
Research by John Talbott results in development of what are now known as I-joists.
I-joists make up 30 percent of the floor supports in single-family homes in the U.S. today.
WSU researchers receive grant to purchase a low-grade nuclear reactor
In September 1953, Dean S. Town Stephenson and a dozen science colleagues began planning to acquire a low-grade nuclear reactor for research. They received a $300,000 grant to construct a building to hold a swimming pool type reactor. In 1957 the Atomic Energy Commission gave $105,000 to purchase the equipment. In 1961, the WSU nuclear research program completes its first chain reaction.
WSU offers first Ph.D. in American Studies in Pacific Northwest
The Regents adopted a Ph.D. in American Studies, an interdisciplinary degree within the Departments of History and English, for the 1961-1962 school year. It was the first doctoral program in American Studies in the Pacific Northwest and by 1975 it was only one of six programs west of the Mississippi.
Jack Cole named to the WSU Board of Regents
Jack Cole, from Edwall, Wash., is named to the WSU Board of Regents. He served two terms from 1961-1967 and 1977-1983.
WSU archaeologists discover 12,000-year-old human remains
In 1962, WSU archeologists Richard Daugherty and Roald Fryxell began excavating the Marmes Rockshelter, near where the Snake and Palouse rivers meet. During the excavation, they found what was then the oldest human remains in the western hemisphere at approximately 12,000 years old.
WSU president and regent visit WSU program in Pakistan
President French and Regent Tom Gose visited WSU’s program in Pakistan, one of the first international programs helping developing countries with land grant assistance. French also visited Pakistan in 1956 and 1964.
Distinguished Cougs receive Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award
The Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award honored the first three recipients: Phillip H. Abelson, Henry T. Heald, and Edward R. Murrow.
Edward R. Murrow delivers the annual commencement address
Edward R. Murrow delivers the Commencement Address in 1962
WSU alumnus Edward R. Murrow returns to campus and delivers the annual commencement address at Rogers Field. Rogers Field was located where Martin Stadium is today. The introduction was delivered by President C. Clement French who can be seen with Murrow in the first photo. The video seen here is the audio from that address, with a select few photographs from the ceremony overlaid upon it. Murrow died from cancer just three years later in 1965.
WSU joins Athletic Association of Western Universities
WSU joined the Athletic Association of Western Universities in 1962, the precursor of today’s Pac-12.
Compulsory ROTC program changed to voluntary
The compulsory ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) program was changed to voluntary, reflecting a greater focus on academics at WSU.
KWSU-TV goes on air for first time
KWSC-TV went on the air for the first time under the direction of Cal Watson. Though the university was already WSU, KWSC did not become KWSU until March 1, 1969.
Ivy Lewellen, executive secretary for 37 years, passes at age 83
Ivy Lewellen passes away at age 83. She served as executive secretary for 37 years to three presidents: Bryan, Holland, and Compton.
Republican campaign finance chairman, biochemist receive the fourth and fifth Regents Distinguished Alumnus Awards
J. Clifford Folger, Nixon’s 1960 campaign finance chairman and member of the board of directors of IBM, and C. Glenn King, one of the two biochemists to isolate vitamin C, are selected for the fourth and fifth Regents Distinguished Alumnus Awards. Folger receives his award on June 3, 1963; King on April 11, 1964.
J. A. Henderson, co-author of Veterinary Medicine, the authoritative text for a generation of veterinary students, becomes Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine
The College of Engineering builds a radiocarbon dating laboratory
Famed “Agony Hall” is torn down to make way for the new Kimbrough Music Building
Famed “Agony Hall” (Music Conservatory) is torn down to make way for the new Kimbrough Music Building.
Hugh Campbell, WSU record-breaking football pass receiver, is voted MVP of the East-West Shrine game after setting a new catching record
Hugh Campbell, WSU record-breaking football pass receiver, is voted MVP of the East-West Shrine game after setting a new record after catching 10 passes. The East-West Shrine game, sponsored by the Shriners, has been played annually since 1925 and teams are drawn from the two geographic regions east and west, including Canada. Campbell played wide receiver from 1958 to 1962 and during that time he appeared in the Hula Bowl, the College All-Star game, the Coaches All-America game and the aforementioned Shrine Bowl, and while at WSU he was awarded the 1961 W. J. Voit Memorial Trophy as the outstanding football player on the Pacific Coast. After playing for WSU, Campbell went on to play for the Saskatchewan Rough Riders and coach several Canadian and US college and professional football teams.
President Emeritus Holland leaves estate of $410,000 to WSU
Nearly 14 years after his death, President Holland’s final estate of $410,000 was gifted to WSU. Two weeks later, the John I. and Orpha Preissner estate of $300,000 is also gifted to the school.
Orton Hall and Rogers Hall are constructed to accommodate “baby boomer” generation
The first “skyscraper dorms,” Orton Hall and Rogers Hall, are built to accommodate the Baby Boom generation.
George E. Duvall, the “dean of U.S. shock wave science,” joins the WSU faculty
George E. Duvall, a pioneer of shock physics research, joined the WSU faculty in 1964 after leaving his position as director of the Standford Research Institute Poulter Lab. At WSU, Duvall established the WSU Shock Dynamics Laboratory in 1968 and supervised the doctoral dissertation of more than 25 students. His work was instrumental in furthering research efforts to seek a microscopic understanding of shock-induced changes in condensed materials. Duvall retired from WSU in 1988 and passed away in 2003 in Vancouver.
Cougar baseball coaching legend and his wife are killed in an auto accident
Cougar baseball coaching legend A.B. “Buck” Bailey and Mrs. Bailey are killed in auto accident in New Mexico.
WSU and UW establish the State of Washington Water Research Center
WSU and UW establish the State of Washington Water Research Center (SWWRC) on the WSU Pullman campus, in Albrook Hall. The Washington Water Research Center is established by the Water Resources Research Act; the SWWRC is one of only 14 centers which begin in that first year.
Howard B. Bowen, president of the University of Iowa, delivers commencement address and receives the sixth Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award
Howard B. Bowen, president of the University of Iowa, delivers commencement address and receives the sixth Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award. Bowen received his bachelors of arts in 1929 and masters of arts in 1933 from then-WSC. He served as chancellor of Claremont University, as well as president of the University of Iowa, Grinnell College and the American Association of Higher Education. He researched and wrote extensively on the economics of higher education, and was appointed by President Lyndon Johnson to chair his National Commission on Technology, Automation and Economic Progress.
WSU sets record for longest baseball game in College World Series history
In 1965, the WSU baseball team became famous for playing the then-longest game in College World Series history: 15 innings against Ohio State, with OSU finally winning 1-0.
Life magazine features WSU animal science reproduction research
Life magazine features WSU animal science reproduction research. S.E. Hafez, animal physiologist as WSU, is the primary researcher in planet colonization.
WSU veterinarian develops less painful branding method for animals
WSU veterinarian Keith Farrell developed a freeze-branding technique for animals, reducing their pain and injury during the branding process.
Harriet B. Rigas joins the WSU faculty
Professor Harriett B. Rigas joins Washington State University, eventually becoming full professor and chair of the Electrical and Computer Engineering school. A pioneer in her field, she received one of the earliest national awards from the Society of Women Engineers and was later named a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers.
Gerry Lindgren, WSU track All-American, wins 11 NCAA titles
Gerry Lindgren, WSU track All-American, wins 11 NCAA titles during his time at WSU. He never loses any NCAA event he enters during the four years he attended the university. Lindgren majored in political science with a minor in Russian.
President French announces his retirement
President French announced his retirement on his 65th birthday, October 24, 1966, but had actually notified the Regents in the spring of 1965. The Regents officially accepted his resignation in their May 31,1965 meeting. French stayed to provide stability while he selected his successor.
Internationally acclaimed scientist receives the seventh Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award
Karl Sax, internationally acclaimed scientist, receives the seventh Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award. Sax attended then-WSC from 1912 to 1916, earning a bachelors of science in agriculture, and while at WSC he met and married his cytology teacher, Dr. Hally Jolivette. Sax is perhaps most well-known for his research in cytogenetics and the effect of radiation on chromosomes.
After President French retires, Wallis Beasley serves as acting president.
Following President French’s retirement near the end of 1966, Wallis Beasley served as acting president for a period of eight months until President Terrell officially came aboard in 1967. While Beasley officially left office at the end of June, President Terrell did not arrive and so Beasley remained unofficially in charge. He took care to sign no official university documents during those last weeks.
R.A. Nilan, geneticist, develops new barley strain with chemical mutagent
R.A. Nilan, geneticist, develops new barley strain with chemical mutagent.
President Emeritus Wilson Compton passes away
President Emeritus Wilson Compton dies in Ohio.
Matsuyo Yamamoto is presented with the Regents Eighth Distinguished Alumnus Award, the first woman honored
Matsuyo Yamamoto is presented with Regents Eighth Distinguished Alumnus Award and is the first woman honored. After receiving her degree in home economics in 1937 at then Washington State College, Yamamoto returned to Japan where she pioneered home economics extension programs, eventually overseeing a staff of 3,000 home advisors that served the rural populations of Japan and other Asian countries. The College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Studies offers the Matsuyo Yamamoto Endowed Scholarship in her honor.
WSU graduate George Nethercutt elected to Congress
George Nethercutt, elected to Congress in 1994 by unseating then-Speaker of the House Tom Foley, graduated from WSU in 1967 with a B.A. in English. Nethercutt would serve five terms in the House of Representatives and then run unsuccessfully for the Senate against fellow Coug Patty Murray.
Glenn Terrell named seventh president of WSU
On February 24, 1967, the Board of Regents selected Glenn Terrell to serve as the seventh president of Washington State University. Terrell took office on July 1, leaving his position as the dean of faculties at the University of Illinois in Chicago.
WSU dedicates the French Administration Building
WSU dedicates the French Administration Building in honor of former President C. Clement French.
Northwest surrealist Robert Helm graduates
Robert Helm, an acclaimed Northwest artist known for surreal imagery and exquisite craftsmanship, graduates from WSU. After leaving WSU, Helm and Tamara continued to live and work in their studios in their beloved wheat fields between Pullman and Moscow. From there, his art went to museums and galleries all over the world. His work is in the collections of some of the most distinguished institutions in America: the Whitney and the Metropolitan Museums in New York, the Hirshhorn in Washington, D.C., and others.
Geologist Roald Fryxell examines lunar rocks in Houston
Geologist Roald Fryxell examines lunar rocks in Houston after all six manned moon landings. Fryxell was initially asked simply to present to the lunar teams on core-sample analysis, but so impressed NASA that he was asked to join the analysis team. A leader in the field of geoarchaeology, Fryxell was the co-principal investigator with Dr. Richard Daugherty of the Marmes Rockshelter site and designed the apparatus used for collecting the lunar rocks. A lunar crater is named Fryxell in his honor.
The WSU nursing program accepts its first class
In 1969, the program that is today known as the WSU College of Nursing accepted its first class of 37 students. The WSU campus is rife with Vietnam war protests and student unrest.
Carlton Lewis, WSU’s first African-American student body president, wins elections in two consecutive years
Carlton Lewis, the first African-American student body president at WSU, was elected in both 1970 and 1971, serving two consecutive terms before graduating in 1972. During his terms, the United States’ was actively involved in Vietnam and the draft lottery system was in place, a system that impacted many young men enrolled at WSU. Issues related to the rights of racial minorities also dominated the Pullman campus. Many students and faculty members were pressuring WSU administration to increase recruitment of minority students and create new academic programs, like Black Studies.
Fire destroys Rogers Field bleachers and other athletic facilities
Fire consumed half of the wooden bleachers at Rogers Field, along with the football and track and field facility. The fire was later determined to be arson. In 1971, $1 million was raised in three months to rebuild the football stadium, which was completed and dedicated in 1972 for former governor Clarence D. Martin.
Students gather on Pullman campus to protest the invasion of Cambodia
Students gathered in front of the CUB to protest the invasion of Cambodia May 1970.
Enrollment passes 15,000 students
Enrollment for the 1970-1971 year passed 15,000 students.
Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen attends WSU
Paul Allen, philanthropist and co-founder of Microsoft, attended WSU and became a member of Phi Kappa Theta fraternity. He dropped out of school to work for Honeywell in Boston a couple years after enrolling. In 1975 Allen co-founds Microsoft with childhood friend Bill Gates in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
The Washington State University Alumni Association introduces the Alumni Achievement Award to honor outstanding Cougar alumni
The Washington State University Alumni Association introduces the Alumni Achievement Award to honor outstanding Cougar alumni. Edryn “Ed” Jones (Sept. 21), Asa V. “Ace” Clark (Sept. 28), and Harry E. Goldsworth Jr. (Nov. 9) receive awards in 1970 as the first three recipients.
WSU buys former professor’s historic collection
Paul Philemon Kies, a popular English professor, was known for his collections during his time at Washington State College. He filled his office and home with rare books, autographs, letters, and photographs. Some of these included a note from Sarah Bernhardt, a letter from Pearl S. Buck, a government document signed by Adolph Hitler, and a copy of a poem by Langston Hughes. After Kies’ death in 1971, WSU bought his collection (more than 400 artifacts) and moved it into the archives for safekeeping.
WSU graduates its 50,000th student
WSU names Thompson Hall for former dean
WSU names Thompson Hall for Albert Wilder Thompson, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at WSU from 1953-64. It had formerly just been known as the Administration Building, but those functions had moved to French Hall in 1967-1968.
Gary Larson and Patty Murray graduate from WSU
In 1972, students Gary Larson, creator of the acclaimed comic strip “The Far Side,” and Patty Murray, future United States Senator, graduated from WSU.
Ki Tecumseh, founder of Native American Student Association, stretched the rules
Growing up on the Yakama Indian Reservation, Kiutus “Ki” Tecumseh Jr. told his high school counselor that he wanted to go to college and was told, “You will fail. You are good with your hands. You can be either a baker or a bricklayer.” Tecumseh applied for admission to Washington State University and was accepted. While earning a degree (’72 Comm.), he served as an ASWSU senator and was an assistant instructor in a contemporary American Indian Studies class. Many remembered him best as founder and first president of the Native American Students Association. “Indian people don’t consider themselves to be a minority people. They have their own religion, own culture, own life and land,” says Tecumseh, a member of the Winnebago Indians of Nebraska. During his student days, he and his Native American peers pushed the University to recruit more Indian students from the state and provide the support services they needed to be successful. He believes that traditional fishing rights, shoreline and mineral issues, and treaty rights transcend the reservation and are important to all people living in the Northwest. Ki is now retired in New Mexico, where he formerly chaired the advisory council on Indian education to the state board of education.
WAMI begins, bringing medical education programs to Washington, Alaska, Montana, and Idaho
The Washington, Alaska, Montana, Idaho (WAMI) program is established in 1971 to create a cooperative agreement among the aforementioned states, and WSU becomes part of it in 1972. The program provides access to medical school to state residents of Alaska, Montana, and Idaho — states without medical schools — and also brings medical education into these states.
Thompson Hall added to National Register of Historic Places
The National Park Service designated Thompson Hall (formerly the administration building) for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places.
WSU alumnus Edward R. Murrow honored by the College of Communication
In 1973, the Edward R. Murrow Communications center was dedicated to WSU alumnus, Edward R. Murrow. In 1990 the Edward R. Murrow School of Communication was dedicated.
First commencement held at Beasley Coliseum
The recently constructed Beasley Performing Arts Coliseum opened for hosting the 1973 commencement ceremonies. In previous years, commencement ceremonies had been held either in Bohler Gym or, weather permitting, at Rogers Field (now Martin Stadium).
Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory approved
The Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (WADDL) is officially created with new funds from the legislature and existing resources. Today, it is a fully accredited facility and one of only a handful integrated with veterinary schools nationwide.
WSU creates major exhibit for Spokane World’s Fair/Expo ’74
WSU created a major exhibit featuring Albrook Hydraulic Laboratory work, titled “Waterworld,” for the Spokane World’s Fair/Expo ’74.
The Washington, Oregon, and Idaho regional Veterinary Medicine program begins instruction, led by the WSU Veterinary College
The Washington, Oregon, and Idaho (WOI) regional Veterinary Medicine program begins, led by the WSU Veterinary College.
WSU provides educational services in Jordan
WSU signs a pact with the Kingdom of Jordan to provide educational services. A team of twelve staff members (all but one from Pullman) traveled to Jordan to assist the creation of animal science, plant pathology, irrigation, agricultural marketing, and other programs, working with Jordanian students and faculty.
WSU students dress up as members of “Palouse Country Club”
On a lark (and prior to Caddyshack), a group of fifth-year architecture students dressed up as members of a “Palouse Country Club,” posing with golf clubs and tennis whites on College Hill to record the effort.
Kate Webster and Edith William become the second and third women appointed to the Board of Regents
Kate Webster and Edith William become the second and third women appointed to the Board of Regents.
Henry Rono sets multiple world records while running for the Cougars
Henry Rono sets multiple world records while running for the Cougars. Rono won the NCAA Cross Country Championship three times, in 1976, 1977, and 1979, as well as the NCAA Steeplechase in 1978 and 1979, and the NCAA Indoor champion in the 3000 meters in 1977.
Heart plays at KWSU
The band Heart played to a packed studio audience on campus during KWSU’s show Second Ending. At the time, Heart was a young band whose internationally-renowned album, Dreamboat Annie, hadn’t been released yet.
Steve Puidokas sets Cougar men’s career basketball scoring records
Steve Puidokas, a six-foot-eleven point guard, sets the Cougar men’s career basketball points record. Puidokas other career records would include scoring average (18.6 points per game), field goals, and rebounds (9.7 per game). He was the second-team all-conference for four straight seasons. Puidokas is the first WSU basketball player to have his number (55) retired.
A $1,000,000 Kellogg Foundation grant creates the Partnership for Rural Improvement
A $1,000,000 Kellogg Foundation grant creates the Partnership for Rural Improvement (PRI). The PRI project includes community planning/organizing, economic development, organizational development for NGOs, leadership education, distance education access, and rural policy development.
Regent Michael Dederer becomes Board of Regents President for a third time
Regent Michael Dederer becomes Board of Regents President for a third time. Dederer, a Seattle philanthropist and president of the Seattle Fur Exchange, was originally appointed in 1955 to fill the unexpired term of John C. Scott, who resigned. Dederer started as a janitor at the Seattle Fur Exchange in 1922, and just 17 years later was president of a rapidly growing fur empire. In public service, Dederer not only served as first member, then president of the WSU Board of Regents, but he was also a regent for Pacific Lutheran University and headed the WSU Foundation. Dederer died on June 24, 1995.
Film actor Dolph Lundgren attends WSU for one year
Dolph Lundgren, best known for his action roles in Rocky IV (as Ivan Drago) and The Expendables, spent the 1976-1977 school year at WSU as an exchange student, working on a chemical engineering degree. He was also a member of the Cougar Marching Band. Contrary to some reports, he did not actually graduate from WSU. Instead, he finished his coursework at Sweden’s Royal Academy and the University of Sydney in Australia.
Vogel receives the National Medal of Science for his work in wheat breeding
On October 18, 1976, President Gerald Ford presented the National Medal of Science to WSU Professor Emeritus, Orville Vogel. Vogel helped develop wheat varieties with stronger stalks and higher yield potential, which now grow on five continents. This research launched the “Green Revolution,” a push in agricultural research to help feed the world’s hungry. Vogel worked at WSU from 1931 to 1973, receiving his Ph.D. here in 1939.
Men’s Indoor Track and Field wins the National Championship
Orville Vogel, developer of the world’s most productive wheat strains, receives Regents ninth Distinguished Alumnus Award
Orville Vogel, developer of the world’s most productive wheat strains, receives Regents Ninth Distinguished Alumnus Award. Vogel received his Ph.D. at WSU in 1939 and stayed as faculty for several decades. His work helped start the “Green Revolution” in agriculture. He led the research team that produced the first commercially successful semi-dwarf wheats and was known for his inventions of scientific research equipment. He received the National Medal of Science, presented by President Ford in 1975, as well as the State of Washington Medal of Merit in 1987.
The student show choir, The Crimson Company, debuts
The Crimson Company student show choir first performs for Dad’s Weekend in 1977 and goes on to be one of WSU’s most popular public relations vehicles. In almost 23 years, they do over 650 shows for over 350,000 audience members. They last perform in May of 2000, after the WSU Alumni Association could no longer afford to sponsor them.
The tenth Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award goes to ABC television sportscaster, Keith Jackson
The tenth Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award goes to ABC television sportscaster, Keith Jackson.
The Hitchcock Research Track, the only horseracing facility of its type built for research purposes on a university campus in the U.S., is begun on the Pullman campus
The track is completed in early summer of 1980, and named that year after horse industry activists Maurice and Kathleen Hitchcock, who donated about one quarter of the construction costs.
Butch VI, last of the live mascots, passes at age 15
The last of the live mascots, Butch VI, dies at age 15. Butch VI was gifted to the school by then-state governor Albert Rosellini in September 1964.
WSU introduces the Athletic Hall of Fame, which eventually grows to over 150 members
WSU introduces the Athletic Hall of Fame, which will grow to over 150 members by 2010.
Veterinary Science Building, later Bustad Hall, dedicated
In 1983 a $3 million multi-purpose animal holding and care facility is completed adjoining existing animal care facilities in the Veterinary Science Building. In 1984 the building is named for the dean emeritus, Leo K. Bustad.
WSU Foundation established
The WSU Foundation is created as a “separate foundation of a charitable and educational nature, organized exclusively to serve the needs of WSU and manage the private support given it.” By 2015, the Foundation will have raised over 1.3 billion dollars.
Jack Thompson’s No. 14 jersey is retired, recognizing his 7,818 yards gained passing
Jack Thompson’s No. 14 jersey is retired, recognizing his 7,818 yards gained passing. Thompson is only the second football jersey ever retired by WSU.
Athletes sue WSU for equal support of women’s sports teams
In 1972 Title IX, a federal law mandating gender equity for any education program or activity that received federal financial support, passed. Like many institutions, WSU was slow to improve the experience for women athletes so in 1979 the students, along with their coaches, sued the university.
Gibson, Shroeder, Neill receive the Regents Distinguished Alumnus Awards
Weldon B. “Hoot” Gibson, Charles Schroeder, and Marshall Neill receive the eleventh, twelfth, and thirteenth Regents Distinguished Alumnus Awards.
The Campaign For Washington State begins
The Washington State University Foundation is created to “promote, accept, and maximize private support for programs, initiatives, and properties of Washington State University and its regional campuses” as well as manage, invest and steward the assets entrusted to it by WSU and alumni, friends, and donors.
Troubled youth detonates bomb in Streit-Perham Hall
John Stickney, a troubled youth and ex-boyfriend of WSU student Lisa Clark, detonated a bomb on the fourth floor of Streit-Perham Hall, killing himself and wounding two policemen. Stickney, a high school dropout, was employed by Industrial Rock Products as a powder man. He drove from his home in Mercer Island to attempt a reconciliation with Clark. Stickney twice attempted to talk with Clark at her dorm room and then detonated the bomb after a failed attempt to force entry.
Alumni and Foundation Leadership awards recognize outstanding Cougs
Alumni/Foundation Leadership Awards begin under the leadership of Alumni Association President, Richard Gustafson.
Cooper Publications Building is the first building named to honor a classified staff member, Caroline Cooper.
Cooper Publications Building is the first building named to honor a classified staff member, Caroline Cooper. Cooper was Director of Duplicating and Mailing for 39 years.
The home of WSU Baseball, Bailey Field, opens after relocating
The home of WSU Baseball, Bailey Field, opens after relocating. The field was previously at the site of today’s Mooberry Field. In 1984, the field was one of the first NCAA fields to be lit for night games. In 2013, WSU installed an artificial turf mound, the only such mound among west coast schools.
WSU museum surpass teaching mission and become public icons
WSU is home to three superb collections: the Conner Museum, Ownbey Herbarium, and James Entomology Collection. All three began almost as soon as Washington State College opened its doors. They were considered central to the school’s land-grant mission to help farmers identify weeds and pests and to document the native flora and fauna of the state.
William Bugge, Washington Director of Highways, and Laurence Peter, co-author of the Peter Principle, receive the fourteenth and fifteen Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award
William Bugge, Washington Director of Highways, and Laurence Peter, and co-author of the Peter Principle, receive fourteenth and fifteenth Regents Distinguished Alumnus Awards.
Connie Kravas, a doctoral graduate in education administration and supervision, becomes director of development
From student to philanthropic leader, Connie Kravas (’74), doctoral graduate in education administration and supervision, becomes director of development. In 1980, she was named executive director of development and WSU Foundation president. She became University Advancement vice president in 1997, after leading the highly successful Campaign WSU, the university’s first comprehensive fund-raising effort. Over a seven-year period, ending in 1997, Campaign WSU raised more than $275 million. It increased the university’s scholarship endowment, established endowed professorships to attract and retain top faculty, and provided modern equipment for teaching and research.
Glenn Johnson begins his celebrated tenure as “Voice of the Cougars”
In a 26-31 Cougar pigskin loss to San Jose State in Spokane, Glenn Johnson debuts as public address announcer for WSU football and men’s basketball, a position which soon earns him the title of “Voice of the Cougars.” In 1983, he starts the “And that’s another Cougar first down…” call which has since been copied by many others. Glenn was a faculty member in the WSU Murrow College of Communication faculty from 1979 to 2014.
Robert Redford Institute for Resource Management announced at WSU and University of Idaho
Robert Redford Institute for Resource Management announced at WSU and University of Idaho. Named for the famous actor, the IRM opened in fall of 1982 and brought together environmentalists and industrialists to resolve conflicts and promote sustainable development.
WSU dedicates the Warren G. Magnuson Nursing Education Building
WSU dedicates the Warren G. Magnuson Nursing Education Building, home to Intercollegiate Center for Nursing Education, on Aug. 27. The building, located in Spokane, is named for State of Washington U.S. Senator.
Jim Walden leads WSU Cougar football against Brigham Young University in the Holiday Bowl
Coach Jim Walden leads WSU Cougar football against Brigham Young University in the Holiday Bowl in San Diego. In the WSU Cougars first bowl game in 51 years, they narrowly lose with a score of 36-38.
Jeanne Eggart breaks WSU career basketball scoring record for women and men with 1,967 points.
Eggart scores 16 against Portland State, bringing her to 1,906 points in her career, passing men’s basketballer Steve Puidokas’ record of 1,894. She would finish her career with 1,967.
WSU men’s bowling team wins national title
The WSU men’s bowling team brought home a national title. They accomplished this by outlasting Michigan State with a score of 192-168. This was their second appearance in the national tournament finals, having finished in second place two years earlier.
Institutional advancement functions consolidate under new vice president, Stanton Schmid
Hein, Stevenson, and Bigeleisen receive Distinguished Alumnus Awards.
The Regents 16th, 17th, and 18th Distinguished Alumnus Awards are respectively awarded to Mel Hein, the “greatest all-around player the game of football has seen;” Robert Stevenson, the former head of Allis-Chalmers Manufacturing Co.; and world-renowned chemist Jacob Bigeleisen.
WSU’s 100,000th graduate, Cheryl Anne Breen, receives her degree
Col. John Fabian becomes the first Cougar astronaut aboard the Challenger II space shuttle
Col. John Fabian (’62) becomes the first Cougar astronaut aboard the Challenger II space shuttle. Fabian made two trips to space and logged over 316 hours, and was the first person to deploy and retrieve a free-flying satellite. Fabian graduated from Pullman High School and then enrolled at WSU, receiving a bachelors of science in mechanical engineering. He later received the 19th Regent Distinguished Alumnus Award.
L. Keating Johnson named director of bands at WSU
In the fall of 1983, L. Keating Johnson was named director of bands at WSU, where he taught both conducting and tuba and conducted the Wind Symphony and Symphony Orchestra. He also served as music director and conductor of the Washington-Idaho Symphony.
Edmund O. Schweitzer, III, PhD, Electrical Engineering graduate, starts Pullman’s Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories
Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories incorporates in 1982, but marks their official beginning from their first microprocessor relay shipment, in 1984. Today, SEL is the largest private employer in Pullman. Schweitzer, class of 1977, would receive the Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award in 2014.
WSU athletes win three gold medals in the Olympic games
WSU athletes win three gold medals and one silver medal, in Los Angeles at the 1984 Olympic Games. Julius Korir wins the gold in steeplechase, while Paul Enquist and Kristi Norelius both win in rowing -Paul in the men’s double sculls and Kristi in the women’s coxed eights. In track, Gabriel Tiacoh finishes with the 400m silver.
For the first time in the university’s history, WSU uses an early-start semester academic calendar
For the first time in the university’s history, WSU uses an early-start semester academic calendar. Although implemented in August 1984, the WSU Faculty Senate approved the calendar change in 1980.
Rueben Mayes sets record as NCAA running back
On a wet fall afternoon in Eugene, Oregon, in late October 1984, Rueben Mayes’ feet carried him to what was at the time the greatest accomplishment of any NCAA running back, rushing for 357 yards. Just a week earlier, Mayes ran for 216 yards at Stanford in a rally that brought Washington State University from a 28-point third quarter deficit to a 49-42 win.
Dan Lynch, WSU offensive lineman, appears on the Bob Hope Christmas Special with the AP All-American team
Dan Lynch, WSU offensive lineman, appears on the Bob Hope Christmas Special with the AP All-American team. Lynch played for WSU from 1980-1984 and started all four years for the Cougars.
An act of legislature increases the WSU Board of Regents membership from seven to nine people.
Construction begins on the WSU Research and Technology Park
Ground is broken on the WSU Research and Technology Park.
Samuel H. Smith named eighth president of WSU
On March 7, 1985, the Board of Regents selected Samuel H. Smith to serve as the eighth president of Washington State University. He took office on July 1, leaving his position as the dean of the College of Agriculture and director of both the Cooperative Extension Service and Agricultural Experiment Station at Pennsylvania State University.
John Candy immortalizes the WSU fight song as “Tom Tuttle from Tacoma”
John Candy immortalizes the WSU fight song in the movie Volunteers. Candy plays a WSU graduate, “Tom Tuttle from Tacoma,” who is assigned to build a bridge for local villagers in Thailand with fellow costars Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson. The WSU fight song is sung by Tom Tuttle while he is under the capture of communist forces.
Washington Higher Education Telecommunications System begins transmitting live courses around the northwest
The Washington Higher Education Telecommunications System, or WHETS, transmits its first live interactive course, originating on the Pullman campus and reaching both Vancouver and Spokane. The University of Idaho, UW, Gonzaga, and Tri-Cities all also take part in the initial project.
WSU dedicates science building to James H. Hulbert, 50-year advocate of Washington agriculture and WSU.
Agricultural Science Phase II Building, built in 1971, is dedicated to former Regent, Skagit County farmer, and 50-year advocate of state agriculture and WSU, James H. Hulbert.
National Academy of Sciences honors WSU biochemist
The National Academy of Sciences honors biochemist Clarence A. “Bud” Ryan. He becomes the first WSU professor with membership in the prestigious organization. Ryan’s career at WSU spanned more than 40 years. His work on the natural insecticides plants produce when they are subjected to herbivorous predators is internationally recognized.
Students celebrate college-level commencements
Students celebrate the first commencement that had individual college-level ceremonies on Saturday, May 10. Following a shorter main ceremony, students now participate in college graduations held all around campus.
WSU Athletics introduces new leadership
WSU Athletics introduces new leadership to the Cougar family, including Jim Livengood, athletic director; Dennis Erickson, football coach; and Kelvin Sampson, men’s basketball coach.
The first 48 Glenn Terrell Presidential Scholars are named
170 incoming students in total will be named as the first Glenn Terrell Presidential Scholars and Distinguished Presidential Scholars in advance of the 1987-1988 school year.
Students get a jump on registration and pre-register for their 1987 fall semester classes.
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Washington Mutual Bank donates a former Union Pacific train depot in downtown Pullman to WSU.
Washington Mutual Bank donates a former Union Pacific train depot in downtown Pullman to WSU. As the Cougar Depot, it opens on July 13, 1988 as home to the athletic ticket office, visitor center, and community meeting facility. In 2014, the Brelsford Visitor Center opens and the Cougar Depot is sold to Umpqua Bank.
WSU branches out to Vancouver, Tri-Cities, and Spokane
In 1987, the State Higher Education Coordinating Board asked WSU to increase access to higher education in the Tri-Cities, Vancouver, and Spokane. On August 24, WSU offered its first three undergraduate courses in Vancouver and in 1989, the three branch campuses officially open. The branch campuses serve more than 6,000 students a year.
Dean Emeritus of the College of Veterinary Medicine receives the 20th Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award
Leo K. Bustad, Dean Emeritus of College of Veterinary Medicine and internationally recognized speaker, humanist, and founder of People & Pet Therapy programs, receives the 20th Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award.
The Washington State Historical Society recognizes trailblazers from WSU in the Washington Centennial Hall of Honor
The Washington State Historical Society recognizes trailblazers from WSU in the Washington Centennial Hall of Honor: Philip Abelson (Class of 1933), “Father of the Atomic Submarine;” Enoch Bryan, WSC president (1893-1916); Gary Larson (Class of 1972), acclaimed Far Side cartoonist; Edward R. Murrow (Class of 1930), preeminent broadcast journalist; Archie Van Doren (Class of 1937), father of controlled atmosphere storage for apples, conducted research for WSU at its Wenatchee Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center; Orville Vogel (Class of 1939), agronomist who revolutionized wheat breeding, made possible the Green Revolution. He worked for the USDA at WSU in Pullman.
A new monument constructed at the walkway entrance of Bailey Field welcomes fans who come to watch the Cougs play ball
A new monument constructed at the walkway entrance of Bailey Field welcomes fans who come to watch the Cougs play ball.
Former WSU president C. Clement French passes
Former WSU president, C. Clement French, died in Lacey, Wash.
Book thief steals rare books from library archives
In early 1988, WSU Library archivists revealed that more than 357 books and 2,500 manuscripts, worth $500,000 total, were missing from the rare artifacts collection. Two years later, the FBI arrested the book thief, Stephen Blumberg, at his home in Iowa and discovered a cache of 16,000 rare books and manuscripts he had stolen from universities all over the country. Officials estimated the value at the time to be between $25 and $35 million. The book thief spent four and a half years in prison and was released on parole despite a WSU librarian and police officer arguing Blumberg would reoffend if released.
Governor signs land purchase bill for the Spokane campus
Governor Booth Gardner signs an $800,000 appropriation allowing the Spokane Intercollegiate Research and Technology Institute (SIRTI) to purchase a swath of Spokane land across the river from Gonzaga, for developing a branch campus. The first building would be dedicated there on Oct. 21, 1994.
Neva Martin Abelson receives the Regents 23rd Distinguished Alumnus Award for her work in pediatric medicine.
Neva Martin Abelson receives the Regents 23rd Distinguished Alumnus Award. She is the wife of famed-chemist Phillip Ableson, and co-founder of the global test for Rh blood factor which has saved millions of babies’ lives. Neva was one of the first women to earn a medical degree from Johns Hopkins University, and the first woman to be in charge of the hospital’s nurseries there. Later she was a professor of pediatrics and pathology at the University of Pennsylvania. Her work in pediatrics piqued her interest in the Rhesus factor and its relation to blood disease in tiny infants, which at the time was a likely cause of death or mental retardation.
The first Summer Orientation Program for students and parents welcomes new Cougs to campus
Peter Koech wins the silver medal at the Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea
Peter Koech (’86) wins the silver medal in 3,000-meter steeplechase at Summer Olympics in Seoul, South Korea. In 1989, Peter Koech breaks the world record in steeplechase with a time of 8 minutes, 5.35 seconds.
Mary Turner DeGarmo, known for transcribing musical compositions into braille, and William Julius Wilson, sociologist, receive the Regents 21st and 22nd Distinguished Alumnus Awards
Mary Turner DeGarmo, known for her work in transcribing musical compositions into braille, and William Julius Wilson, sociologist, receive the Regents 21st and 22nd Distinguished Alumnus Awards. DeGarmo, who graduated in 1926 with a B.A. in Education, developed the first and only detailed, comprehensive teaching text on transcribing musical compositions into Braille for blind musicians, a volume used worldwide. DeGarmo, the second woman honored with the Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award, passed away in 1995. Wilson received his Ph.D. in Sociology in 1966 and is known for his research and scholarship on the black underclass. He authored articles and books including, “The Truly Disadvantaged: The Inner City, the Underclass and Public Policy” and “The Declining Significance of Race.”
Cougs defeat the University of Houston at Eagle Aloha Bowl in Honolulu, 24-22
The WSU Cougars defeat the University of Houston Cougars, 24-22, at the Eagle Aloha Bowl in Honolulu. The game was the second bowl appearance in the 1980s and the first bowl victory for WSU since the 1916 Rose Bowl.
WSU’s Hotel and Restaurant Administration Program ranks fourth nationally among hospitality programs
A more humane way
WSU introduces the first elective alternative laboratory course on basic surgical techniques which uses cadavers of animals euthanized for humane reasons to avoid use of surplus animals for that purpose.
The Lewis Alumni Centre opens
The Alumni Centre opens in the name of benefactors Jack and Ann Lewis. It was part of a $50 million construction initiative on the Pullman campus, which included the Chemistry Building and the Food Science and Human Nutrition Building.
Howard Nemerov, U.S. Poet Laureate, receives an honorary doctoral degree.
Howard Nemerov, Pulitzer-prize winning poet and poetry consultant to the Library of Congress, receives an honorary doctoral degree.
AT&T donates $1.8 million in computer-aided design and analysis network equipment for molecular science.
WSU dedicates McEachern Hall in honor of former Regent Robert and his wife Margaret McEachern
WSU dedicates McEachern Hall in honor of former Regent Robert and his wife Margaret McEachern, both long-time benefactors and alumni. McEachern Hall was originally known as the Graduate Residence Center and was built in the early 1970s.
National Institutes of Health grants WSU $473,000 to train graduate students in the science and applications of protein chemistry.
WSU signs an agreement with Far Eastern State University in Vladivostok, Russia, to begin an exchange program.
Fulmer Hall receives a makeover, dedicating a vibration-free laser laboratory and a six-story addition
Fulmer Hall receives a makeover, including a vibration-free laser laboratory and a six-story addition.
Jason Hanson, field goal kicker, is first team academic athletic All-American.
Jason Hanson, field goal kicker, is the first team academic athletic All-American. He’d go on to play 21 years for the NFL’s Detroit Lions.
Dr. Rick Watts leads international research in the development of in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) one of the more rapid methods for treating soil and groundwater pollution.
Tony Li takes first place in the 55-meter hurdles at the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championship.
He would win the title again in 1991 as well.
WSU celebrates its 100th anniversary
Governor signs a $2.9 million appropriation to expand WSU’s telecommunications system.
WSU baseball coach Chuck “Bobo” Brayton wins 1,000th game
Chuck “Bobo” Brayton won his 1,000th game as Cougar head baseball coach in a 14-6 victory against Eastern Washington at WSU’s Bailey Field. The field was renamed Bailey-Brayton after Bobo retired in 1994, having accumulated 1,162 career wins at WSU. Brayton’s predecessor, Buck Bailey, coached the Cougars from 1927-1962, and Brayton followed from 1963-1994. The two combined to coach the Cougars for over 60 years.
Hal Dengerink serves as first chancellor of WSU Vancouver
After 20 years as a faculty member in psychology at WSU Pullman, Hal Dengerink became the first chancellor of WSU Vancouver. Hal helped establish the urban campus and led it for more than 20 years before his retirement in 2011. Shortly after, Hal passed away after a courageous battle with brain cancer.
Gary Larson, syndicated cartoonist and creator of the Far Side, receives the Regents 24th Distinguished Alumnus Award and is the Centennial Commencement Speaker.
Gary Larson, syndicated cartoonist and creator of The Far Side, receives the Regents 24th Distinguished Alumnus Award and is the Centennial Commencement Speaker. His talk is titled “The Importance of Being Weird.”
WSU research animal, Morty the Moose, featured on TV’s “Northern Exposure”
Morty the Moose, a WSU research animal, was featured in the opening credits of television’s “Northern Exposure.” In 1994, Morty died of an illness linked to a mineral deficiency.
WSU pitcher Aaron Sele plays on the USA baseball team at the Goodwill Games.
Allen C. Wilson receives the Regents 25th Distinguished Alumnus Award for his work in molecular evolutionism.
Allen C. Wilson receives the Regents 25th Distinguished Alumnus Award for his work in molecular evolutionism. Wilson received an M.A. in Zoology in 1957, studying under bird physiologist Donald S. Farner. Wilson came to WSU from his birthplace in New Zealand. During his career, his work was recognized with many prestigious awards, including the MacArthur Fellowship.
“The Caring Call”, a sculpture by Larry Wayne Anderson sculpture, is built on campus.
“The Caring Call”, a traditional bronze sculpture by Larry Wayne Anderson sculpture, is built and dedicated near the intersection of Stadium Way and Grimes Way. It is the only bronze statue in the country depicting a human administering medical care to an animal.
WSU has largest intramural program west of the Mississippi
According to intramural program supervisor Mary Ann Steele, the University “has the largest intramural program West of the Mississippi” based on the number of participants compared to total enrollment The participation rate ranks WSU’s program among the top 25 in the nation.
WSU chooses the future home of WSU Vancouver
WSU’s choice for the future home of WSU Vancouver is approved by the state’s HEC board. The land spans 348 acres at Salmon Creek in Clark County. The campus opens in 1996 and it is WSU’s first all new campus in over a century.
The Todd Hall Addition is added to Todd Hall as part of a $5.6 million expansion
The $5.6 million expansion to renovate Todd Hall, home of the Hotel and Restaurant Administration, establishes the Todd Hall Addition.
WSU ranked 34th nationally in corporate financial support
African American Alumni Alliance is born at WSU
The WSU African American Alumni Alliance begins in fall of 1991 during the planning of that year’s first Black Student Reunion.
WSU basketball coaches Harold Rhodes and Kelvin Sampson named Pac-10 Coaches of the Year
The women’s basketball team makes first-ever appearance in NCAA Tournament
The Cougars were defeated by Northwestern, 82-62, in a first round match-up in Chicago.
Queen of Denmark appoints Vishnu Bhatia, director of the WSU Honors Program, a Knight of the Dannebrog Order
Queen Magrethe II of Denmark appoints Vishnu Bhatia a Knight of the Dannebrog Order for the decades he devoted to building bridges between the Scandinavian nation and WSU. Bhatia served WSU for 47 years (1951-1998) and counted among his greatest accomplishments heading the Honors Program (1964-1993) and directing the Office of International Education at WSU (1973-1990). The WSU Honors Program, now the Honors College, counts several thousand alumni and is considered one of the best Honors programs in the United States.
WSU West moves into the Westin Building in downtown Seattle
WSU West moves into the Westin Building in downtown Seattle. In 2000, WSU West moved from the Westin Building to a building on Pike Street, both in downtown Seattle.
The math department finds a new home in Neill Hall, a former student residence
Carolyn Kizer, a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, receives her WSU honorary doctoral degree
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WSU Men’s Track and Field takes the Pac-10 title and places second in the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships
WSU West dedicated in honor of former WSU Regent Michael Dederer
WSU Tri-Cities opens its new $12.5 million teaching facility in Richland
Barry Serafin receives the 26th Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award for his career in journalism
Barry Serafin receives the 26th Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award for his career in journalism. Serafin started his career at KWSU and later transferred to the CBS Washington D.C. bureau. He won an Emmy for his contribution to the documentary “Watergate: The White House Transcripts.” He then joined ABC in 1979, covering the Iran hostage crisis, and became a national correspondent in 1981.
Women’s volleyball invited to their first NCAA tournament
Alumnus Clint Cole helps to develop the HeartStart portable automated external defibrillator, or AED, which is credited with saving tens of thousands of lives
Cole later returned to teach advanced courses in Electrical Engineering at WSU in 1997, and began designing adaptable circuit boards for his students to use. After sharing them with colleagues in different universities nationwide they became so popular that he formed his own company, Digilent, to manufacture and market the circuit boards. Cole received his B.S. in computer science in 1987 and a M.S. in Electrical Engineering in 2000, both from WSU. He continues to teach junior and senior-level electrical engineering courses.
The Center for Animal Well-Being opens
The Center for the Study of Animal Well-Being at Washington State University is a cooperative effort between the College of Veterinary Medicine and the Department of Animal Sciences in the College of Agriculture and Home Economics. Its goal is to produce and distribute the best possible information on what factors of animal care and use controlled by humans are truly in the animals’ best interest.
Former WSU quarterback Mark Rypien is the Super Bowl XXVI MVP
Former WSU quarterback Mark Rypien is the 1992 Super Bowl XXVI MVP in the Washington Redskins’ 37-24 win over the Buffalo Bills.
Josephat Kapkory wins NCAA track and field, cross country titles
Josephat Kapkory claimed the 3,000-meter title at the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championship in Indianapolis, Indiana. In 1994, Kapkory captured the 10,000-meter title at the NCAA Cross Country Championships.
Men’s basketball receives first NIT bid
The WSU men’s basketball team received its first invite to the National Invitational Tournament. The Cougs lost in the second round to University of New Mexico.
Remodeled Carpenter Hall opens as home to School of Architecture
The remodeled Carpenter Hall opens as home to the School of Architecture, now the School of Design and Construction. The cost of renovation was $9 million.
Doctor of Pharmacy program approved for WSU Spokane
The space shuttle Columbia carries WSU science experiments into space.
The space shuttle Columbia carries WSU science experiments into space. The first from WSU physicist Philip Martson and the second from WSU plant scientists.
Sallie Giffen becomes the first vice president for Business Affairs
Donors contribute record-setting $33.5 million to WSU in 1991-1992
In the ’91-’92 fiscal year, donors gifted WSU with a then-record $33 million in grants and gifts. This is up from the previous year’s record of $26 million, and it would in turn be topped the following year when that year’s gifts tallied $45 million.
Construction management becomes the first five-year Construction Management program in the nation, bachelor’s degree program receives accreditation.
WSU Multicultural Center opens its doors
The new WSU Multicultural Center opened its doors in the renovated former Chemical Engineering Building (Math Learning Annex).
WSU alumnus receives 27th Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award for service during the Gulf War
U.S. Air Force General (ret.) Robert D. Russ received the 27th Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award for his service as Commander of Air Force Aviation during the Gulf War. Russ graduated from WSU in 1955 with a B.A. in business administration and entered the Air Force in 1955 as a second lieutenant, serving until 1991 when he retired as general.
Patty L. Murray becomes first WSU graduate to serve in the Senate
Patty L. Murray, class of 1972, was elected for the first time to represent Washington in the U.S. Senate. She was the first WSU graduate to serve in the Senate.
Mike Lowry is elected governor of Washington
Mike Lowry (’62) is elected governor of Washington. Lowry was born in St. John, Washington and served various positions in the Washington State government before his election. Lowry also spoke at the 1993 commencement ceremony.
Women’s volleyball wins NIVC tournament
The WSU women’s volleyball team won the National Invitational Volleyball Championship (volleyball’s equivalent of basketball’s NIT) by beating Bowling Green University in three straight sets. The team did not lose a single game throughout the tournament.
WSU Cougars win the Copper Bowl, 31-23, against the University of Utah in Tucson, Arizona
WSU College of Arts and Sciences reorganized into two separate units
The WSU Board of Regents approved reorganization of the College of Arts and Sciences into two separate academic units: the College of Sciences and the College of Liberal Arts.
Boeing donates $7 million to WSU
The Boeing Company donated $7 million to WSU- the largest private gift to date.
Heather Metcalf becomes sixth female ASWSU president
WSU quarterback Drew Bledsoe is the first pick in the NFL draft by the New England Patriots
WSU professor R. James Cook selected for National Academy of Sciences membership
R. James Cook, USDA plant pathologist and WSU professor, was elected into membership in the National Academy of Sciences.
History professor LeRoy Ashby receives his second CASE Washington Professor of the Year award
He previously had won the same award in 1990.
John Olerud, former WSU baseball star and Toronto Blue Jay, wins the American League batting title with a .363 average.
Internationally renowned WSU faculty member receives 28th Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award
John Gorham, internationally renowned veterinarian and WSU faculty member, received the 28th Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award. Gorham was the first student to earn a graduate degree from the College of Veterinary Medicine and contributed heavily to the study of feline and canine disease.
WSU Veterans Memorial finds home on campus
The WSU Veterans Memorial is dedicated on Veterans Day in 1993, honoring all alumni, faculty, and staff who died during 19th and 20th century conflicts. In 1996, the class of 1949, with help from former registrar James Quann, began a campaign to complete the memorial. It was rededicated on October 7, 2000.
Army ROTC earns No. 1 national ranking
WSU’s oldest alumni die at 103
Floyd Smith and Mariel Fulmer Doty, WSU’s oldest known alumni, both die at age 103.
Cougar men’s basketball invited to NCAA Tournament
The WSU men’s basketball team received an invitation to play in the NCAA Championship Tournament. They lost in the first round to Boston College, 64-67.
Prominent Native American author Sherman Alexie graduates from WSU
Sherman Alexie, a Native American writer, poet, and filmmaker who grew up on the Spokane Indian Reservation, graduated from WSU cum laude with a B.A. in American studies. Some of his best known works are the book of short stories The Lone Ranger and Tonto Fistfight In Heaven and the film Smoke Signals, for which he wrote the screenplay. In 2003, Alexie received the WSU Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award. In 2007, Alexie received the National Book Award for The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian.
Huntleys leave wheat ranch to WSU
Necia Bennett Huntley (’35) and husband Elmer C. Huntley left a 890-acre wheat ranch in Thornton, Washington to WSU. The goal of the ranch was funding scholarships.
WSU completes construction on Terrell Library
WSU completed construction on a new $36 million library adjacent to Holland Library. In May 2006, it was formally named after former WSU president Glenn Terrell.
WSU Regent Kate Webster retires after nearly 19 years of service
WSU Regent Kate Webster retired after nearly 19 years of service. She served the longest term on the WSU Board of Regents in the past 50 years. The Physical Sciences Building is named for her.
WSU women’s soccer makes first NCAA Tournament appearance
Coach Lisa Gozley and the WSU women’s soccer team made their first NCAA Tournament appearance. The Cougs were ranked 19th by “Soccer America,” the oldest magazine devoted to American soccer.
Cougs win Apple Cup in the snow
Cougar fans celebrate a 23-6 Apple Cup football victory against University of Washington in the snow at Martin Stadium.
The WSU football team beats Baylor University 10-3 at the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio, Texas.
WSU beats UW in friendly fundraising competition
WSU wins a friendly fundraising competition with the University of Washington. As a result, Seattle’s Space Needle roof got a crimson and gray paint job.
WSU Honors Program ranked among top eight in the nation
“Money” magazine ranked WSU among the top eight of the 436 honors programs at American public universities.
Campaign WSU exceeds $200 million goal
Campaign WSU passes $200 million mark eight months before its scheduled end. In 1997 the seven-year Campaign WSU, the university’s first comprehensive fundraising effort, concluded with final total of $275.4 million, surpassing its original $250 million goal. Supporting WSU’s vision to be one of the top public universities in the nation, the money raised benefited scholarships, teaching and research programs, student programs, and learning initiatives statewide.
Coach Kevin Eastman takes men’s basketball to NIT
Coach Kevin Eastman took WSU men’s basketball to the post-season NIT Tournament.
Plans approved for new Cougar Plaza in downtown Pullman
Golden Grads donate grand piano to WSU
The Golden Grads of 1945 donated a grand piano to WSU as a class gift. It was dedicated during a concert in the Rotunda of the Terrell Library.
WSU Baseball takes Pacific-10 North title
The WSU baseball team captured the Pac-10 North baseball title under first-year coach Steve Farrington.
Norman Borlaug receives WSU honorary doctoral degree
Nobel Peace Prize recipient, Norman Borlaug, received an honorary doctoral degree from WSU during commencement in 1995. Borlaug and WSU professor, Orville Vogel, are credited with research crucial to the “Green Revolution” in wheat breeding, which has saved an estimated one billion lives in the twentieth century.
U.S. Army General Shalikashvili speaks at commencement
U.S. Army Gen. John M Shalikashvili, chairman of the U.S. Department of Defense Joint Chiefs of Staff, spoke at commencement. His son Brant was one of the graduates. Shalikashvili served as the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Supreme Allied Commander from 1993 through 1997, the first foreign-born American to do so.
Thrifty PayLess donations to School of Pharmacy total $100,000
Thrifty PayLess contributed more than $100,000 for computer equipment, software, and student scholarships for the College of Pharmacy.
Women’s JV crew captures national crown
The WSU women’s junior varsity crew team captured the crown at the National Collegiate Rowing Championship Regatta on Lake Harsha in Ohio. It was the first title for the five-year-old rowing program.
Thomas “Les” Purce announced as Vice President For Extended University Affairs
Thomas “Les” Purce, former senior administrator at The Evergreen State College in Olympia, was selected as Vice President for Extended University Affairs at WSU.
Cougar pride hits the road with the launch of WSU Cougar license plates
Cougar pride hits the road with the launch of WSU Cougar license plates. Money from each Cougar plate supports student scholarships. By the first anniversary of the state of Washington collegiate motor vehicle program, more than 5,119 plate featuring the WSU Cougar logo will be sold–more than all the other public schools in the state combined.
WSU opens Yakama Village apartment complex for families and graduate students
“Money” magazine ranks WSU among top 15 best value universities
Money magazine ranks WSU among the top 15 best value four-year undergraduate universities in the West.
Stevens Hall celebrates its centennial
“Common Ground” mural dedicated in the CUB
“Common Ground,” a three-piece acrylic-on-canvas painting celebrating diversity at WSU, was dedicated in the Compton Union Building. WSU colleges and administrative units donated funds for the mural by artist Katrin Wiese, Riverside, Calif.
President Emeritus Terrell returns to campus
President Emeritus Glenn Terrell, who led WSU from 1967-1985, returns to WSU for dedication of the Glenn Terrell Friendship Mall.
Cougar women’s volleyball team ranked fifth nationally
Butch T. Cougar spends the day at Disneyland for WSU vs. USC pre-game rally
Butch T. Cougar and Mickey Mouse spent the day in Disneyland at a pre-game rally for the WSU vs. USC football game.
Volleyball coach Cindy Fredrick named PAC-10 Conference Coach of the Year
Volleyball coach Cindy Fredrick concluded her seventh season at WSU by being named PAC-10 Conference Coach of the Year, and was named AVCA District VIII Coach of the Year as well. The team finished 22-7 overall and third in the Pac-10, led by All-American Sara Silvernail.
Legendary men’s basketball coach Jack Friel dies at 97
Jack Friel, coach of the Cougar men’s basketball team from 1928-1958 and holder of the school’s record for 495 victories, died at 97. Friel led the Cougs to the 1941 NSAA championship game and was later the first commissioner of the Big Sky Conference.
WSU pilots six Extended Learning Centers
WSU Cooperative Extension officials and community partners announced plans to develop six pilot Extended Learning Centers in Port Townsend, Wenatchee, Colville, Longview/Kelso, Tacoma, and Yakima to expand educational opportunities.
President Samuel Smith receives the Boy Scouts of America’s Distinguished Eagle Scout Award
Second building at WSU Spokane, Phase One Classroom Building, celebrated
After opening its doors to its first students in January, the new classroom building, Academic I, celebrates its dedication on Feb. 21.
WSU dedicates Foley Institute
WSU officially dedicated the Thomas S. Foley Institute for Public Policy and Public Service. It is named for the former speaker of the house and State of Washington Congress member.
WSU alum named one of America’s 25 most influential people
Time magazine named WSU alumnus William Julius Wilson (’66) one of America’s 25 most influential people. Dr. Wilson, who earned his doctorate in sociology from WSU, taught sociology at several universities, including Harvard. He is one of the nation’s most accomplished and looked-to analysts of race, inequality, and poverty, a MacArthur “genius” award recipient and, counting this year’s accolade at Yale University, holder of 45 honorary degrees.
Time magazine honors WSU graduate William Julius Wilson
Time magazine named WSU graduate William Julius Wilson, noted sociologist, one of America’s 25 most influential people.
Ask Dr. Universe makes its debut
Universe magazine editor Tim Steury and scientist/cat Dr. Wendy Sue Universe team up to answer science questions from curious readers. “Ask Dr. Universe,” a popular question-and-answer science column for children, is syndicated in 30 newspapers around the region.
WSU opens new $38 million Veterinary Teaching Hospital
WSU opened its new $38 million Veterinary Teaching Hospital. In 2007, the Veterinary Medical Sciences program was ranked among the top three nationally for scholarly productivity, according to Scholarly Productivity Index. On Sept. 9 the hospital made history when an 80-year-old woman became the first human patient to use the hospital’s magnetic resonance imaging unit. Under a cooperative agreement, the vet hospital provides imaging services for human patients.
New high-tech Phi Kappa Theta house dedicated at WSU
The new $3.1 million Phi Kappa Theta fraternity house opened. High-tech in every respect, it reflected the “wired world” commitment of WSU alumnus and fraternity member Paul Allen, Microsoft co-founder. He funded the building, and equipped each of the other Greek houses at WSU with fiber-optic connections.
WSU dedicates Lighty Student Services building
WSU began construction of the $17 million Student Services building, named for benefactors Phil and June Lighty, in 1994. The Lightys established one of WSU’s largest scholarship endowments for students with demonstrated leadership potential.
The Center for Reproductive Biology, an interdepartmental and inter-institutional program involving 16 departments and 7 colleges at WSU and University of Idaho, is established
The mission of the Center (CRB) is to provide opportunities for investigators from across the Pacific Northwest to collaborate and learn from one another. The Center boasts a large membership at the two core institutions (WSU and UI), but also includes a number of members at Montana State University, University of Washington, Central Washington University, and Spokane Community College.The CRB includes approximately 88 faculty and over 200 trainees and staff and is one of the largest reproductive biology centers in the world.
WSU professors Rod Croteau and Linda Randall elected to National Academy Of Sciences
WSU biochemists Rod Croteau and Linda Randall were elected to the National Academy of Sciences. They joined four other WSU researchers in the academy: C.A. “Bud” Ryan, a biochemist; Jim Cook, a USDA plant pathologist at WSU; John Hirth, a materials scientist; and Dieter H. von Wettstein, a plant geneticist.
Dave Cooper retires as manager of the Students Book Corporation after 27 years
Dave Cooper retired as manager of the Students Book Corporation after 27 years.
WSU receives grant to create Institute for Shock Physics
WSU received a $10 million, five-year grant from the U.S. Department of Energy to create an Institute for Shock Physics. The institute is directed by WSU physics professor, Yogi Gupta. In 2001 the university held a ground-breaking for a new building to house WSU’s internationally recognized Institute for Shock Physics. In 2003, the new building housing WSU’s internationally recognized Institute for Shock Physics was inaugurated.
Consolidated Information Center opens at WSU Tri-Cities
The Consolidated Information Center at WSU Tri-Cities opened. Funds for the $18.6 million literary and teaching center came from the state of Washington and the U.S. Department of Energy.
Gretchen Bataille named Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
WSU names Gretchen Bataille Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, effective July 1. She had been provost of the College of Letters and Science at the University of California at Santa Barbara.
Women’s swimming coach Debbie Pipher resigns after 20 years
Debbie Pipher, senior member of the WSU coaching staff, resigned after 20 years as coach of the women’s swimming team.
A poetry corner in the library is named in honor of Ruth Slonim, professor emeritus of English.
The WSU Cougars return to the Rose Bowl for the first time in 67 years
The WSU Cougars head to the 84th Rose Bowl for the first time in 67 years. Sadly, the Cougars lose to Michigan, 21-16, a sad end to an otherwise great season. The Cougars were predicted to finish seventh in the Pac-10, but won the conference title and posted a 10-1 record. In February, football coach Mike Price signed an eight-year contract extension through December 31, 2005.
Pine Manor torn down
Built by the Works Progress Administration in 1937 with a knotty pine interior, it was operated as a cooperative house, independent of the university’s housing system. In 1963, fire safety concerns brought an end to its use as a dormitory. WSU purchased it and renovated it into headquarters for an internationally recognized anthropology program, the Center for Northwest Archeology.
WSU veterinary staff and alumni honored as Legends of Veterinary Medicine in Washington D.C.
The CL Davis Foundation for the Advancement of Veterinary and Comparative Pathology honor Dr. John Gorham, Dr. Thomas Jones, class of 1935 and Dr. Floris M. Garner, Class of 1950, former chairman of veterinary pathology at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in Washington D.C. by naming them Legends in Veterinary Pathology.
The Alumni Association celebrates 100 years
On March 26, the WSU Alumni Association began a six-month centennial celebration. The association started in 1898, eight years after the state Legislature created the land-grant college.
Engineering, Teaching, and Research Laboratory (ETRL) opens
The new $27 million, 100,000-square-foot Engineering, Teaching, and Research Laboratory opened. Adjacent to Dana Hall, the four-story structure was funded by the U.S. Department of Energy.
WSU takes a larger role in education in Spokane
A new state law gave WSU a major educational leadership role in Spokane and management responsibilities for the Riverpoint campus.
Bill Chipman Palouse Trail dedicated
The 8-mile-long Bill Chipman Palouse Trail opened. Built on an abandoned railroad bed, this recreational path paralleling the highway between Pullman and Moscow is a recreational asphalt trail involving two states, two cities, WSU, and the University of Idaho. The late Bill Chipman, a Pullman car dealer, was a UI graduate and supporter of his alma mater and WSU.
Oldest living graduate of WSU College of Pharmacy dies at 102
At age 102, Dorothy Otto Kennedy, the oldest living graduate of the WSU College of Pharmacy, died in Everett. She earned her degree in 1916 and went on to practice pharmacy in Reardan in eastern Washington and Everett in western Washington.
Governor Gary Locke discussed race and bigotry on campus
Washington Gov. Gary Locke participates in a dialogue on race and bigotry in the Compton Union Building with students, faculty, and staff. In an address he said, “The gift of cultural pluralism is grounded in mutual respect and democracy.”
WSU students riot on College Hill
Early on the morning of Sunday, May 3rd, approximately 200 students rioted, clashing with police on Greek Row in the College Hill neighborhood of Pullman. The riot, possibly provoked by a WSU ban on on-campus drinking, injured twenty-three police officers and about twelve party-goers.
The first Future Teachers of Color graduate
The first students recruited to WSU through the College of Education’s Future Teachers of Color program graduated during the 1998 Commencement.
WSU Board of Regents adds first student member
The first WSU student regent is Jannelle Milodragovich, who serves in 1998-1999. She is followed in order by Bernadett Buchanan, Matthew Moore, Darren Eastman (2001-2002) of Renton, and many more.
Enrollment at WSU reaches 17,912
Enrollment on the WSU Pullman campus in the fall of 1998 reaches 17,912. System-wide WSU registration totaled 20,998. The 2,877 new freshmen comprised the largest incoming class since 2,970 enrolled in 1980.
Kiplinger’s ranks WSU 39th in “Top 100 Values in State Universities”
The September issue of Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Magazine ranks WSU 39th among the nation’s “Top 100 Values in State Universities.”
The Animal Disease Biotechnology Facility Opens
The Animal Disease Biotechnology Facility (ADBF) houses offices for the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences and research laboratories. The facility is unique among all USDA buildings and facilities projects because its focus is on the use of molecular biology to resolve diseases in agricultural animals with application where appropriate to human health. Program goals include ensuring a safe and abundant human food supply; improving the health and well-being of food animals produced in the US; and providing research training for the next generations of scientists.
Admissions office dedicated to long-time employee, Stan Berry
WSU dedicates the admissions office suite in the Lighty Student Services to Stan Berry, who worked 33 years in WSU admissions. He was director for 22 years.
WSU hosts the Student American Veterinary Medical Association symposium
William Julius Wilson, Ph.D. receives National Medal of Science
William Julius Wilson, Ph.D. (’66) received the 1998 National Medal of Science, the highest scientific honor in the United States.Wilson was a behavioral and social scientists and received the medal “for his innovative approach to studying urban poverty, his dedication to the proposition that rigorous social science change will improve his fellow American’s lives, and his advocacy of policies which reflect more accurately what we have learned from research and which therefore take a broader point of view with respect to the interactions of race, class, and location.”
Yahoo Internet Life magazine rates WSU the No. 1 “wired” public university in America
Paul Allen receives 29th Distinguished Alumnus Award
WSU alumnus and Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen became the 29th recipient of the Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award during commencement.
James Petersen transforms engineering PhD education
James Petersen receives a 5-year National Science Foundation Integrative Graduate Education and Research Training (IGERT) grant, the largest NSF grant received at WSU at that time. The grant enabled the education of about 45 PhD students and transformed the PhD educational programs.
Jason Gesser becomes “winningest quarterback in WSU history”
Jason Gesser broke several Cougar football records during his time at WSU. He was the only player to be selected as team captain three times, and the only quarterback to have back-to-back double-digit win seasons. The “winningest quarterback in WSU history” played briefly in the NFL, CFL, and AFL, then coached for the Idaho Vandals and the Wyoming Cowboys, and in 2014 returned to WSU as an analyst for the football radio broadcast team.
Professor Warwick M. Bayly named dean of Washington State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine
Dr. Bayly has been at WSU for more than 20 years and was named the first, four-year Robert B. McEachern Distinguished Professor in Equine Medicine in 1995. Named acting dean in 2000, one year later the position would become permanent.
Steve Wymer elected to his third ASWSU presidency
Steve Wymer became the first person in WSU history to serve three terms as president of the Associated Students of WSU. He initially became president in 1998-1999, upon succession while serving as ASWSU vice president. He was elected ASWSU president for 1999-2000 and re-elected for 2000-2001.
The Board of Regents selects V. Lane Rawlins to serve as the ninth president of WSU
The Board of Regents selects V. Lane Rawlins to serve as the ninth president of WSU. He took office after serving as the president at University of Memphis. Rawlins was the first WSU faculty member to become president. He joined the economics faculty in 1968, later served as chair of the department of economics, and was WSU vice provost from 1982-86.
WSU unveils its new graphic
On November 17, WSU unveiled its new graphic identity at a WSU Board of Regents meeting in Spokane: the new crimson and gray on white logo employs the Cougar head within a crest, now an internationally recognized symbol for higher education. The famous Cougar head logo was designed in 1936 by then Washington State College student Randall Johnson.
The $39 million, state-of-the-art Student Recreation Center opens
Scientist Jack Gorski receives 30th Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award
WSU graduate and scientist Jack Gorski, a National Academy of Sciences member, received the 30th Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award. Gorski was known for his discovery of the estrogen receptor.
Ralph Yount receives the President’s Eminent Faculty Award
Ralph Yount, a distinguished chemist and Regents Professor Emeritus, receives first WSU Eminent Faculty Award, granted for distinguished lifetime service at WSU. His research was funded through National Institutes of Health without interruption for 40 years, one of the longest continually funded projects at NIH.
WSU boasts record fall enrollment
WSU had a record fall enrollment with total student numbers increasing from 21,248 to 21,794. The freshmen class on the Pullman campus was the second largest in history and the most diverse ever. This university-wide total includes students at WSU campuses in Pullman, Spokane, the Tri-Cities, Vancouver, and in Distance Degree Programs.
WSU holds vigil for 9/11 victims
WSU and Pullman community members held a vigil the evening of September 12 in Pullman’s Reaney Park in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks on the U.S. East Coast.
Washington State Magazine publishes its first issue
Robert Bates becomes Provost and Academic Vice President
Robert C. Bates, a WSU alumnus and longtime Virginia Tech administrator, began service as WSU Provost and Academic Vice President.
WSU hosts first fall commencement in the Beasley Coliseum
Cougar Football wins Sun Bowl
On the final day of 2001, the WSU Cougar football team beat Purdue 33-27 in the Sun Bowl in El Paso, Texas. The Cougs finished the season with a 10-3 record and ranked 10th in two polls.
Spokane Health Sciences Building opens with state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories
The $39 million, 145,000 square-foot Health Science Building was the third building opened on the WSU Spokane campus and houses pharmacy, speech and hearing sciences, exercise science, health policy and administration, and food sciences and human nutrition. Other WSU programs inside include the Health Research and Education Center, Area Health Education Center, Washington Institute for Mental Illness Research and Training (WIMIRT), and the Institutional Review Board-Spokane.
Distinguished professor Don A. Dillman wins Eminent Faculty Award
WSU named Don A. Dillman the second recipient of the WSU Eminent Faculty Award. Dillman was the Thomas S. Foley Distinguished Professor of Government and Public Policy and a social scientist in the Departments of Sociology and Rural Sociology.
Sociologist James E. Blackwell receives 31st Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award
WSU graduate and sociologist James E. Blackwell received the 31st Regents Distinguished Alumnus Award. Blackwell is a leading scholar in the areas of minorities in higher education and social movement in black communities. Blackwell received his Ph.D. in Sociology from WSU in 1959 and worked during the turbulent early 1960s as the president of the San Jose NAACP and as a teacher at San Jose State University. In 1970 the University of Massachusetts hired Blackwell to build its fledgling Department of Sociology and Anthropology at its five-year-old Boston campus where he stayed for 20 years. Blackwell remained passionately dedicated to teaching, not for the sake of knowledge alone, but to help students ” go on to graduate and professional schools and becoming important, contributing citizens.”
Samuel H. Smith Center for Undergraduate Education opens
The Samuel H. Smith Center for Undergraduate Education (CUE), a $32 million, five-story, 94,000 square-foot building, opened in early 2002 as a hub for student-centered and active learning. The Center for Teaching, Learning, and Technology, the WSU Writing Program, General Education Program, and the Student Computing Services Lab are all housed in the building along with 20 classrooms of various sizes. The building was named for WSU’s eighth President, Samuel H. Smith, who served from 1989-2000.
Herbert Eastlick passes away at 94
Herbert Eastlick, a devoted mentor and self-described “taskmaster and autocrat in the classroom” who taught at WSU for 33 years, passed from complications to Alzheimer’s disease at the age of 94. Eastlick came to then-WSC in 1940 as an assistant professor in zoology from the University of Chicago where he earlier became acquaintances with President Holland. He was chairman of the Department of Zoology from 1947 to 1964 and chaired the Faculty Executive Committee in 1955-56.
The Appel Legacy Continues
Four generations of the Appel family, starting with Don in the 1930s, have migrated from farming on the Palouse to cultivating their knowledge at WSU. While Don had to withdraw due to failing eyesight one semester short of his degree, he made sure that all nine of his children (Dick Appel ’59, David ’61, Tony ’63, Fred ’65, Donna ’67, Colleen ’68, Steven ’74, Laurette ’78, and Renata ’82) received their college degrees at WSU. Most of their spouses are WSU degree-holders, plus a host of cousins. They were followed by a third and fourth generation of graduates. Dick and his wife Helen, also a WSU graduate, farm on 1,700 acres near Dusty, Washington and many of the Appel children have degrees in agricultural or engineering related fields.
U.S. News and World Report ranks WSU in the nation’s top 50 public research institutions
Dr. Robert W. Higgins wins 32nd Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award
WSU graduate Dr. Robert W. Higgins, former U.S. Navy Deputy Surgeon General and Navy Medical Corps chief, received the 32nd Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award. Also the recipient of the Distinguished Service Medal, the highest military peacetime award, he was former president of the American Academy of Family Physicians and of the World Organization of Family Doctors.
Women’s Volleyball earns ninth NCAA tourney berth
Cougar women’s volleyball received an NCAA Championship tournament at-large berth for the ninth time, all in a twelve year stretch, hosting the first and second rounds of play.
Cougars play Oklahoma in 2003 Rose Bowl
WSU’s 2002 football team was PAC-10 Conference co-champions. The Cougs played Oklahoma in the 2003 Rose Bowl where they lost 14-34.
WSU faculty members Petersen and Grimes named to leadership positions
WSU named faculty member James Petersen as the University’s vice provost for research. Faculty member Howard Grimes was named the dean of the Graduate School.
Cougar football plays in two bowl games in 2003
The WSU football team had a successful year in 2003. It began with the 2002-03 football team (named PAC-10 Conference co-champions) playing in the Rose Bowl on January 1, 2003. The Cougs lost to Oklahoma 14-34. For the 2003 season, former assistant Bill Doba became the Cougars’ new head coach, succeeding Mike Price. The Doba-led team played in the 2003 Holiday Bowl football game on Dec. 30, 2003. The Cougars beat Texas 28-20. The 2003 season marked WSU football’s third straight 10-win season. The Cougs were the first Pac-10 team to achieve this feat in 70 years.
2003 athletic highlights include NCAA appearances and victories
The athletic highlights of 2003 included women’s golf making its first NCAA appearance, a WSU swimmer competing in the NCAA championship, rowing making its first team NCAA appearance, and Whitney Evans winning NCAA, NCAA regional, and PAC-10 high jump titles.
Dedication of the Dr. Richard Ott Small Animal Medicine and Research Center
Branch campus deans become chancellors
The WSU Regents gave chief executive officers/deans of WSU urban campuses in Spokane, Tri-Cities, and Vancouver “chancellor” titles and expanded their responsibilities.
Rodney Croteau named third recipient of Eminent Faculty Award
Rodney Croteau, Eisig-Tode Distinguished Professor of Forest Biotechnology in WSU’s Institute of Biological Chemistry, was honored as the third recipient of the WSU Eminent Faculty Award.
WSU Foundation moves to downtown Pullman
As part of WSU’s commitment to supporting Pullman, the WSU Foundation moved its offices from campus to downtown’s new Pullman Town Centre. The Foundation raised more than $48.5 million, the second highest fund-raising total in its history.
WSU retires baseball jersey no. 14 in honor of Bobo Brayton
On May 24, WSU honored its “winningest” coach, Charles Frederick “Bobo” Brayton, by retiring baseball jersey no. 14. Brayton wore no. 14 while earning 12 varsity letters at WSU, becoming the school’s first baseball All-America in 1947 as shortstop, and during more than three decades as baseball coach.
Pomerenk named to succeed Guzman as WSU registrar
Julia Pomerenk is named as the new WSU registrar, succeeding Dave Guzman after his retirement. Previously WSU assistant registrar, she returned to the University after serving as registrar of Pacific Lutheran University.
WSU enrolls best prepared freshman class in its history
The best prepared freshman class WSU ever enrolled in the fall included 15 National Merit Scholars and 24 Distinguished Regents’ Scholars.
Keith Lincoln steps down as alumni director
In early September 2003, Keith Lincoln stepped aside after 25 years as the WSU alumni director. Lincoln arrived at WSU in the fall of 1957, having attracted attention as a quarterback at Monrovia High School near Pasadena. At WSU he became a triple-threat halfback and earned the nickname “The Palouse Moose.” He was inducted into the WSU Athletic Hall of Fame in 1979.
Tim Pavish becomes WSU Alumni Relations Director and Alumni Association Executive Director
WSU alumnus Tim Pavish became WSU alumni relations director/WSU Alumni Association executive director. He succeeded Keith Lincoln, who retired from the post after 26 years of service.
Construction begins on Plant Biosciences Building
Construction began on the new Plant Biosciences Building, the first of several new buildings that will create a new research and education complex along Stadium Way. The building was dedicated on October 14, 2005 and named for wheat researcher Orville Vogel in 2007.
Historical entryway arch replica dedicated
A three-quarter size replica of WSU’s historic entryway arch is installed near the original’s location.
Sherman J. Alexie awarded 33rd Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award
WSU graduate Sherman J. Alexie Jr., award-winning poet, author, screenwriter, and film director, received the 33rd Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award recipient.
WSU’s Anjan Bose and Jim Asay join the National Academy of Engineering
WSU’s Anjan Bose, an international expert in the power grid control industry, and Jim Asay, an expert in shock-wave research and high-pressure science, join The National Academy of Engineering. Bose is internationally known for his development of training simulators and computational tools for reliable power-system operation, and for contributions to education and research on power systems.
Raymond Muse, chair of the WSU Department of History, passes away
Raymond Muse joined the WSU Department of History and Political Science in 1948 after completing his doctorate at Stanford. By 1956, Muse had become the chair of the newly formed Department of History. By the time he retired, the history department was ranked among the top 15 percent in the U.S. and offered courses in U.S., Latin American, European, and Asian history.
WSU first in U.S. to diagnose “Mad Cow” Disease
A test developed at WSU was used to diagnose the nation’s first case of “mad cow” disease. Researchers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service at WSU and from WSU’s Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology were credited. The USDA chose WSU for one of seven laboratories nationwide to conduct tests for the disease.
College of Veterinary Medicine earns highest level of accreditation
The WSU College of Veterinary Medicine was granted seven years of continued full accreditation by the American Veterinary Medical Association’s Council on Education. It is the highest level of accreditation any veterinary college can attain.
Veterinary Leadership Experience
The Veterinary Leadership Experience (VLE) is a global leadership education program for veterinary students, faculty and allied professionals. Originally developed from the Cougar Orientation and Leadership Experience (COLE) curriculum, the VLE emphasizes personal leadership and teamwork. Participants have come from as far away as China, Sweden, and South Africa. To expand its reach, VLE moved from WSU in 2012 and is now led by VLE alumni.
Ricardo Sánchez memorial dedicated in Holland Library
A bronze memorial in Holland Library was dedicated to honor the “Grandfather of Chicano poetry,” Ricardo Sánchez. Sánchez was a celebrated poet and WSU creative writing and Chicano studies faculty member from 1991 until his death in 1995.
Thomas J. Dickinson receives seventh WSU Eminent Faculty Award
Thomas J. Dickinson, Regents Professor in the Department of Physics, was honored as the seventh recipient of the WSU Eminent Faculty Award.
Spokane Chancellor Rom Markin receives first President’s Award for Distinguished Lifetime Service
WSU Spokane Chancellor Rom Markin received the first WSU President’s Award for Distinguished Lifetime Service. His WSU service included 15 years as the dean of the College of Business and Economics.
Frances McSweeney receives Eminent Faculty Award
Frances K. McSweeney, professor of psychology and vice provost for faculty affairs, was honored as the fourth recipient of the 2004 Eminent Faculty Award.
WSU celebrates the excellence of faculty and staff
The first “Celebrating Excellence: An Evening Honoring Our Faculty and Staff” banquet in Beasley Performing Arts Coliseum honored WSU award-winning faculty and staff.
News anchor Peter Jennings receives Edward R. Murrow Lifetime Achievement in Broadcasting Award
Peter Jennings, ABC-TV news anchor, received an Edward R. Murrow Award for Lifetime Achievement in Broadcasting during the WSU Edward R. Murrow Symposium.
WSU purchases the Friel House and converts it into a home for music
In 2004, WSU purchased the Friel House and renovated the home into housing for music students. The home belonged to WSU basketball coach Jack Friel and his wife, Catherine, for 54 years. After Catherine passed away in 2003, the Friel family agreed to sell the house to WSU. The school invested $400,000 into the property.
Murrow School Of Communication expands
WSU’s renowned Edward R. Murrow School of Communication was strengthened by the opening of a 24,000-square-foot building, now known as Goertzen Hall, that includes communication research and teaching labs, TV news studio, faculty offices, and an auditorium.
WSU opens new Education Addition building
WSU held opening events for the new Education Addition, adjacent to Cleveland Hall, home of the WSU College of Education.
Dr. Irwin “Ernie” Rose receives 35th Regents’ Distinguished Alumni Award
Nobel Prize winner in chemistry Dr. Irwin “Ernie” Rose received the 35th Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award. A graduate of Spokane’s Lewis and Clark High School, he attended WSU in the mid-1940s and was influenced by Herb Eastlick, a prominent WSU zoology teacher.
John M. Abelson receives 35th Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award
John N. Abelson, who earned a bachelor of science in physics in 1960, was honored as the recipient of the 35th Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award. Abelson was a distinguished molecular biologist and member of the National Academy of Sciences.
Anna Grant, the first woman to earn a doctorate in sociology from WSU, passes away
Anna Harvin Grant, the first woman to earn a doctorate in sociology from WSU, passed away November 6, 2004 of heart failure. Grant was a nationally recognized expert in black family life and former chair of the Department of Sociology at Morehouse College.
Pullman community hospital moves off campus to its new location
On December 16, 2004, Pullman’s hospital moved its last patient from the building it shared with WSU Student Health and Wellness Services to its new location on Bishop Boulevard. The hospital had been located on campus for 57 years.
Yolanda King speaks at WSU
Motivational speaker and actress Yolanda King, daughter of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., gave a presentation in Beasley Performing Arts Coliseum as part of the University’s MLK Celebration.
Cougs give to tsunami and Hurricane Katrina victims
Early in 2005, students, faculty, and staff participated in relief efforts for Asian countries struck by a tsunami. Later, efforts took place for victims of two hurricanes which hit the U.S. Gulf Coast. WSU admitted some students displaced by the hurricanes and more than 7,000 Backpacks for Hope, filled with school supplies, were collected for school students in the affected areas.
Students approve CUB renovations
More than 52 percent of student voters approved renovating the Compton Union Building. Renovation closed the CUB for two years, starting in fall 2006.
Yogendra M. Gupta receives Eminent Faculty Award
Yogendra M. Gupta, professor of physics and director of the Institute for Shock Physics, was honored as the fifth recipient of the WSU Eminent Faculty Award.
R. James Cook receives President’s Award for Distinguished Lifetime Service
R. James Cook received the WSU President’s Award for Distinguished Lifetime Service. Prior to becoming interim dean of the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences, he was a plant pathologist with the USDA-ARS at WSU and later held an endowed chair in wheat research at the university.
Clarence A. Ryan receives honorary doctoral degree
Clarence A. Ryan Jr., emeritus professor, plant biochemistry researcher in WSU’s Institute of Biological Chemistry, and first WSU professor in the National Academy of Sciences, received WSU’s honorary doctoral degree at spring commencement.
WSU closes student firefighting services
Desppite having used both live-in student (and professional) firefighters and EMTs on campus since 1906, WSU’s fire station is now permanently closed. The city of Pullman assumes fire coverage responsibilities.
WSU student becomes youngest person in history to climb highest mountain on each continent
During the summer, WSU student Danielle Fisher, age 20, became the youngest person in history to conquer the highest mountain on each of the seven continents. She was the youngest American to stand atop Mount Everest.
WSU buys Adams Mall for $1.5 million
In 2005, WSU purchased the two-story Adams Mall for $1.5 million and asked Corporate Pointe Developers to redesign the site and manage it for 30 years.
WSU engineering and architecture students display solar home at Solar Decathlon
A solar home constructed on campus in Pullman by WSU engineering and architecture students was part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon competition in Washington, D.C. The home was later moved to a permanent exhibit at Shoreline Community College.
“Good Night, and Good Luck” film honors WSU alumni Edward R. Murrow
“Good Night, and Good Luck,” a new motion picture, depicted WSU alumnus and broadcast journalist Edward R. Murrow taking on U.S. Sen. Joseph McCarthy and the House Un-American Activities Committee in the 1950s. Murrow’s legacy continues in the WSU Edward R. Murrow College of Communication and the Murrow Symposium.
Coug football and basketball “sweep” the UW Huskies
During the 2005-06 year, the WSU Cougars had a football and men’s basketball “sweep” of rival University of Washington Huskies. In fall 2005, WSU beat the UW in the annual Apple Cup football game. In the winter of 2006, the Cougars beat the Huskies in both basketball games. The last time the Cougars had such an academic year “sweep” of the Huskies was 1968-69.
WSU molecular biology research featured in “Discover” magazine
Work by WSU molecular biologist Michael K. Skinner and his research team was chosen as one of the top 100 science stories of 2005 by Discover magazine. The researchers found that exposing fetal rats to environmental toxins can affect their sexual development in a way that also shows up in subsequent generations. The mechanism was an epigenetic one.
The College of Business and Economics is renamed
The College of Business and Economics was renamed the College of Business by the WSU Regents to reflect the impact of business on society and the relocation of the new School of Economic Sciences to the WSU College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences.
Carnegie Classifications ranks WSU as one of 94 research institutions with high activity
The new Carnegie Classifications ranked WSU as one of 94 public and private research institutions nationwide with very high research activity. This recognition brought attention to WSU research and Ph.D. educational programs.
James F. Short Jr. receives the President’s Award for Lifetime Service
Sociologist James F. Short Jr., nationally respected researcher and university leader, received the WSU President’s Award for Lifetime Service.
Jack D. Rogers receives the sixth Eminent Faculty Award
Jack D. Rogers, professor in the Department of Plant Pathology and the Department of Natural Resource Sciences, was honored as the sixth recipient of the WSU Eminent Faculty Award.
Women’s rowing takes fourth place at NCAA Championships
The WSU women’s rowing team took fourth place at the 2006 NCAA Championships in May in New Jersey. In the Cougars’ best finish ever at the NCAA level, the varsity eight and varsity four each finished fourth. Earlier that year, the Cougars finished second overall at the Pac-10 Championships in California. Jane LaRiviere of WSU was named “Coach of the Year” for Pacific-10 Women’s Rowing and for the Collegiate Rowing Coaches Association West Region.
Phyllis J. Campbell awarded 36th Regents’ Distinguished Alumni Award
Phyllis J. Campbell, a member of the class of 1973 with a B.A. in business administration and the president and CEO of the Seattle Foundation, was honored as the 36th recipient of the Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award.
Academic Center opens at WSU Spokane
Guy Palmer elected to the National Academy of Science’s Institute of Medicine
Dr. Guy Palmer, a veterinary pathologist at WSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine, was elected a member of the National Academy of Science’s Institute of Medicine, one of the highest honors for those in biomedical research and human health care.
Spillman Stone rededicated to honor a pioneer wheat breeder
The Spillman Stone, a two-ton granite rock with William Jasper Spillman’s name engraved on it, was rededicated October 21 at Clark Hall Plaza on the Pullman campus. A wheat breeder at WSU from 1894 to 1902, Spillman was the only American to independently rediscover Mendel’s Law of Heredity and was also influential in early agricultural economics.
Butch T. Cougar named Capital One Mascot of the Year
After a fierce competition, Butch T. Cougar was named the Capital One Mascot of the Year on January 1, 2007. Butch beat out eleven other mascots for the title and earned WSU $10,000.
A team of WSU physicists detect shock wave-induced changes
A WSU team of physicists successfully completed the first experiments using the nation’s premiere synchrotron X-ray facility to detect shock wave-induced changes in a crystalline material.
WSU renovates Martin Stadium and the WSU Golf Course
Renovations on the Compton Union Building and Martin Stadium continued on the WSU Pullman campus. The nine-hole WSU Golf Course was also renovated into an 18-hole championship course and renamed WSU’s Palouse Ridge Golf Club. The renovations were completed and both the CUB and Martin Stadium were open for the fall semester in 2008.
Basketball coaching dynasty leads Cougs to NCAA Tournament.
For the first time since the 1993-94 season, the WSU men’s Cougar basketball team made the NCAA men’s national basketball tournament, coached by Tony Bennett. The Cougars won their opening-round game over Oral Roberts, but lost to Vanderbilt in the second-round. WSU finished second in the Pac-10 Conference with a 26-8 season win-loss record. Tony Bennett, who won numerous Coach of the Year honors, succeeded his father, Dick Bennett, who coached the Cougars for three seasons.
Travis McGuire receives WSU President’s Award for Distinguished Lifetime Service
Travis McGuire, professor in the Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology, received the WSU President’s Award for Distinguished Lifetime Service.
Elson S. Floyd named tenth president of WSU
Elson S. Floyd was named tenth president of Washington State University on December 13, 2006 and took office on May 21, 2007. A native of Henderson, North Carolina, President Floyd holds a doctor of philosophy degree in higher education and most recently served as the president of the four-campus University of Missouri system.
Patricia G. Butterfield becomes dean of the Intercollegiate College of Nursing
Patricia G. Butterfield became dean of the WSU Intercollegiate College of Nursing. She had been a professor and chair of the Department of Psychosocial and Community Health Nursing at the University of Washington.
WSU receives $156 million in new research grant awards
WSU received nearly $156 million in new research grant awards during the 2007-08 fiscal year, up about 16 percent from the previous year.
George Mount becomes the Director of the Center for Environmental Research, Education, and Outreach
George Mount, WSU civil and environmental engineering faculty member since 1997, became director of a new university system-wide interdisciplinary Center for Environmental Research, Education, and Outreach (CEREO). In 2004 NASA launched a satellite into space that includes a pollutant-measuring device that professor George Mount helped develop.
WSU tests its Emergency Alert System on campus
In 2007, WSU installed and tested outdoor warning sirens and public address units on the Pullman campus. The system was created to alert and provide information to students, faculty, and staff in the event of a campus-wide emergency.
WSU Regents rename two buildings
The WSU Regents renamed two Pullman campus buildings. Wilson Hall became Wilson-Short Hall, honoring James F. Short, Jr., influential WSU sociology professor. This building was first named for James Wilson, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture from 1897 to 1913. The Plant Biosciences Facility I, part of a multi-building bioscience complex, became the Orville A. Vogel Plant Biosciences Building, named for one of WSU’s great agricultural researchers and wheat breeders.
Remembering Clarence A. (Bud) Ryan
Clarence A. (Bud) Ryan, one of WSU’s preeminent scientists, died suddenly of a brain aneurysm in October. Ryan pioneered the study of the innate immune response of plants. Prior to his work, plants were assumed to contain protease inhibitors all the time, as a deterrent to being eaten. Ryan discovered instead that plants make the inhibitors in response to an attack. He further showed that an attack on one part of a plant sets off chemical signals that spur production of inhibitors throughout the entire plant. Besides his scientific renown, Ryan was well known around campus for his graciousness—-and his ability on the basketball court.
Architects David Miller and Robert Hull receive the 37th and 38th Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award
David Miller and Robert Hull, members of the class of 1968 and founding partners of Seattle-based The Miller|Hull Partnership, LLP, were honored as the 37th and 38th recipients of the Regents’ Distinguished Alumnus Award. In 2003 the Miller Hull Partnership received the 2003 American Institute of Architects Architecture Firm Award, the AIA’s highest honor.
WSU celebrates 100th Apple Cup
The first contest between cross-state rivals Washington State and the University of Washington took place on a muddy field in Seattle in November 1900. The Washington Agricultural College “Farmers,” as the Cougs were known then, made the 290-mile trek from Pullman to Seattle to play the UW “Sun Dodgers” in the pouring rain. The match ended in a five-to-five tie. In 2007, WSU beats UW in the 100th Apple Cup. They score in the last minute to beat the Huskies, 42-35.
Jay Starratt becomes the dean of WSU Libraries.
Jay Starratt became dean of the WSU Libraries. He had been associate vice chancellor for information technology and dean of library and information services at Southern Illinois University in Edwardsville.
Johnnetta Cole receives honorary doctoral degree
Johnnetta Cole, former WSU faculty member and administrator and President Emerita of Spelman College in Atlanta and Bennett College in North Carolina, received an honorary doctoral degree from WSU at fall commencement on December 6.
Paul Wulff named WSU football coach
In December, Paul Wulff, WSU graduate and former Cougar football player, is named WSU football coach following eight years as head coach at Eastern Washington University. He succeeds Bill Doba who was at WSU for 19 years, the last five as head coach. In late November, Doba’s coaching career concluded in Seattle in the 100th Apple Cup football game where WSU defeated the University of Washington Huskies, 42-35.
Scientific American names Patricia A. Hunt one of the top 50 researchers in the world for her research into plastics
Scientific American named WSU reproductive biologist Patricia A. Hunt to their “SciAm 50” list, identifying her as one of the top 50 researchers in the world. Her research showed a potential threat to human health posed by bisphenol A (BPA), a component of the polycarbonate plastics used to make food and beverage containers.
WSU receives the largest grant in the history of the university
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation grants WSU $25 million to help construct the $35 million building that will become the centerpiece in the WSU School for Global Animal Health. This is the largest grant in the history of WSU.
WSU-branded airplane hits the skies
Alaska/Horizon Airlines painted one of their aircraft in Cougar-branded livery. Similar planes would follow in the coming years for other regional schools, but WSU’s was the first.
The NFL establishes a scholarship at WSU in Michael Utley’s name.
Michael Utley, former student and 1989 All-American offensive guard, injures his spinal cord and is paralyzed during a Detroit Lions football game. Utley establishes the Mike Utley Foundation to help those with spinal cord injuries and Utley became known for the “thumbs up” he flashed fans after being carried off the field when he was injured in 1991. In 2008 the NFL established a scholarship at WSU in Utley’s name for students studying sports medicine.
LeRoy Ashby receives Presidents Award For Lifetime Service
LeRoy Ashby, the Claudius O. and Mary Johnson Distinguished Professor of History and a Regents professor, receives the WSU President’s Award for Lifetime Service.
Anjan Bose receives Eighth Eminent Faculty Award
Anjan Bose, Regents Professor in electrical engineering and computer science, was honored as the eighth recipient of the WSU Eminent Faculty Award.