Ruthven 'Well Pleased' With U-M Progress

Ruthven 'Well Pleased’ With U-M Progress

Alexander G. Ruthven, president-emeritus of the University, today celebrated his 73rd birthday, “well pleased” with institution he served so long.

Ruthven, who retired June 30, 1951, said today “I am very pleased that the University continues to lead the way, both in teaching and in research.”

“Higher education in this county is at a higher level than ever before,” he added.

Completing his graduate work at the University in 1906, Ruthven was made instructor in zoology and curator of zoology. He was named U-M president in 1929.

Predicting "difficult times ahead,” Ruthven explained that “barring national or international catastrophe, student enrollment will far exceed what we have now.

"However, I am further pleased with the fact the University is moving forward to equip itself to meet the increasing demands of society, both in the field of research and in taking care of increased enrollment.”

In a less serious vein, Ruthven noted that since his birthday comes on April 1, April Fool's Day, he "looks forward to plenty of trouble all day.”