OLD DOMINION HISTORY BOOK CELEBRATES 70 YEARS OF HIGHER EDUCATION IN HAMPTON ROADS
When city leaders in the late 1920s dreamed of creating an institution of higher education in Hampton Roads, the Old Dominion University of today would have been beyond even their wildest imagination. But, the carefully orchestrated plan of those leaders, such as Robert Hughes, A.H. Foreman and former Norfolk Mayor S. Heth Tyler, provided the foundation for one of the region's most precious gems.
The story of Old Dominion's emergence from a single schoolhouse that was a branch of the College of William and Mary to a 200-acre campus with several off-site and distance learning locations is detailed in the university's new history book, "Old Dominion University: From the Great Depression to the New Millennium, 1930-2000," which was unveiled at Old Dominion's Founders' Day Dinner last night.
The 230-page text features a stunning array of photos from the university archives, as well as timelines that provide a short trip back in time. The four-color hardback book includes the following 10 chapters.
1. Royal Mon (an)-archy! The Break from William and Mary
Covering the development of the school from the dreams of a few Norfolk citizens to the creation of the Norfolk Division of the College of William and Mary, this chapter concludes with the gaining of independent status and finally, becoming a university.
2. The Tumultuous '60s & '70s - You Say You Want a Revolution?
This chapter focuses on the 1960s and 1970s, particularly the protests of those decades, with heavy emphasis on such groups as the Students for a Democratic Society. The 1980s also are touched on through coverage of the response to the Iranian hostage crisis.
3. How Does Your Campus Grow?
The physical evolution of the campus, from the humble beginnings at the Old Larchmont School to the 21st century stylings of the Gornto TELETECHNET Center, is profiled in the third chapter. Off-campus centers and the planned University Village also are mentioned.
4. Team Spirit! Old Dominion and the Hampton Roads Community
The University's many partnerships with such entities as the military and local neighborhoods are highlighted here. The university's enterprise centers and the role Old Dominion plays in Hampton Roads' economy are emphasized. The school's status as an "urban university" is referenced frequently.
5. Somewhere Over the Rainbow - Embracing the Spectrum of Full Diversity
This chapter takes the school from the days of segregation to its current status as a "world-class" university with a significant minority and international population. Many firsts are included, such as the first African-American student and first female administrator, and the decade-long discussion of a possible merger between Old Dominion and Norfolk State also is detailed.
6. The Revolution of Distance Learning
Old Dominion was a pioneer in distance education. In fact, the school first embraced televised education back in the 1950s. Today, the university's TELETECHNET program makes education possible for students around the commonwealth and beyond who otherwise would likely be unable to pursue a degree (without a significant commute.) The innovative Ships to Sea program also is noted.
7. The Life & Times of a Monarch
This chapter on student life covers everything from the Greek system to Superdance to clubs within individual disciplines. Using a timeline approach, the chapter provides a snapshot of what life was like for students each decade. Special emphasis is given to providing a look at national and international events that influenced the times.
8. Monarch Mania! Athletic Success Comes A-Court-in'
From the first sports event (a loss in a football game) to national championships and a strong reputation, athletics has played a significant role in Old Dominion's storied history. Certainly, the triumphs of the school's high-profile basketball programs and national championship field hockey and sailing programs are detailed, but significant attention also is given to the lesser-known efforts of Old Dominion's wrestlers, golfers and tennis players, to name a few.
9. Cultured Pearls: Old Dominion Brings the Finer Things to Hampton Roads
Theatre, music, dance, visual art - you name the field of endeavor and Old Dominion is there, shaping the cultural landscape of Hampton Roads. This chapter celebrates the university's emergence as an artistic leader in the community.
10. High Profile: The Names & Faces of Those Who Shaped Old Dominion
This chapter recognizes the many leaders who molded the school into the University of the 21st Century. The lists of names of those who have served in leadership positions or been recognized with honors tell only part of the story. Each list is accompanied by a short biography of one individual who exemplifies the Old Dominion story. In addition, each president and first lady is profiled.
The brainchild of Old Dominion President James V. Koch and Vice President for Institutional Advancment John R. Broderick, the publication was produced in-house with freelance writers and artists hired as needed.
"The university's history was 70 years in the making, but the last three years have been particularly busy for those who worked on the actual publication," said Broderick. "I'm proud of the work they have done to create a truly first-class look at the institution through the eyes of those who have helped it grow."
Local writer Maggie Brydges served as the primary author, and Elizabeth V. Harders of Old Dominion's Office of University Relations was the book's managing editor. Julie Hale, a 2000 graduate of Old Dominion's master of fine arts in creative writing program, not only conducted the majority of research for the book, but also wrote the chapter on culture. Former Daily Press sportswriter Bob Moskowitz handled the chapter on Old Dominion's storied athletic program. Keith Lanpher was hired to photograph the campus of today. University photographer Chuck Thomas also contributed photographically, as did Danny Holcomb and L. Todd Spencer. Karen Smallets of the Office of University Publications designed the book, which was printed by Liskey & Sons Printing Inc. in Norfolk.
Others who assisted with the project include: Victoria Burke, director of University Publications; copy editors Beth Cooper and Steve Daniel; research assistant Jay Gaidmore; and G. William Whitehurst, Kaufman Lecturer in public affairs at Old Dominion.
"Old Dominion University: From the Great Depression to the New Millennium, 1930-2000" retails for $29.95 and will be available in the campus bookstore and at all local Barnes & Noble stores by the end of October.