Energetic, shrewd, and charming, Herman B Wells was the driving force behind the transformation of Indiana Universitywhich became a model for American public higher education in the 20th century. A person of unusual sensitivity and a skilled and empathetic communicator, his character and vision shaped the structure, ethos, and spirit of the institution in countless ways. Wells articulated a persuasive vision of the place of the university in the modern world. Under his leadership, Indiana University would grow in size and stature, establishing strong connections to the state, the nation, and the world. His dedication to the arts, to academic freedom, and to international education remained hallmarks of his 63-year tenure as President and University Chancellor. Wells lavished particular attention on the flagship campus at Bloomington, expanding its footprint tenfold in size and maintaining its woodland landscape as new buildings and facilities were constructed. Gracefully aging in place, he became a beloved paterfamilias to the IU clan. Wells built an institution, and, in the process, became one himself.
This much-needed biography gives Herman B Wells his rightful place in the sun as an important university leader.It is impossible to really understand the history of American higher education in the twentieth century without this vivid, informed biography of one of the great, perhaps the greatest, of the university builders.In this delightful biography, James Capshew has captured the essence of Herman B Wells, his extraordinary leadership of IU as president and chancellor, and his contributions to the university, observable from every corner of the campus. With tenacity, intelligence, and skill, Herman B Wells pursued his vision of building the greatness of IUand it is all set out for us with grace and elegance in this volume to remember, learn about, and appreciate the life and work of Herman B Wells.
Preface: A Hoosier State of Mind
Prologue: Campus Cenls(
![Herman B Wells The Promise of the American University [Hardcover]](/itemImage/2/7/4/9/2_240313.jpg "Herman B Wells The Promise of the American University [Hardcover] xxx")