PLU Timeline -- University Archives

1935

Professor Harold Leraas with student, 1960

Harold Leraas is appointed to the sciences department. He is the second faculty member to hold a Ph.D., and the first Ph.D. in the sciences. He starts PLC's strong pre-medical and pre-dental programs and helps coach the track team.

Rhoda Hokenstad Young '35

Rhoda Hokenstad Young, having just graduated from PLC, is hired as the women's physical education director.

In her 30-year tenure, she also teaches folk dancing. She makes it a lasting PLC tradition and creates the Mayfest dancers.

1937

Harry McCormick '36 on PLC's first golf course

The golf course is donated to PLC, enlarging the campus to its present dimensions.

Gunnar Malmin

The Choir of the West directorship passes to Gunnar Malmin.

Laying the cornerstone of the new library (Xavier Hall)

On 23 October, the cornerstone is laid for the new library building.

1939

Princess Märtha, left, and Crown Prince Olav

Crown Prince Olav and Crown Princess Märtha of Norway visit PLC on 25 May.

Professor Grace Blomquist

Grace Blomquist joins the faculty. She serves until 1976 as dean of women and an English and Latin professor. She starts the children's literature program with a strong library collection to support it. The children's literature collection in the PLU library today is named for her, as is a building housing part of the School of Business.

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