William E. Gardner Jr. facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
William E. Gardner Jr.
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| President of Savannah State College |
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| In office 1989–1991 |
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| Preceded by | Wendell G. Rayburn |
| Succeeded by | John T. Wolfe Jr. |
| Personal details | |
| Born | March 19, 1939 |
| Died | April 15, 1991 (aged 52) Tybee Island, Georgia |
| Profession | educator |
William E. Gardner Jr. was an important leader who served as the president of Savannah State College. He was born on March 13, 1939, and passed away on April 15, 1991. He led the college from 1989 until 1991.
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William Gardner Jr.'s Time as College President
William E. Gardner Jr. was the ninth president of Savannah State College. During his time as president, many good things happened for the college.
Growing the College
One big achievement was how much the college grew. The number of students joining Savannah State College increased by 13 percent. This was a very large and important growth for the school.
He also helped the college get a special approval called SACS accreditation. This means the college met high standards for education. It showed that Savannah State College was a great place to learn.
New Programs and Buildings
Dr. Gardner worked to bring back a program for training teachers. This program helps students become certified teachers. He also started a new research center. It was called the Advanced Water Technology Institute and cost $2.7 million.
He also made sure the college buildings were improved. There was a $3 million addition to the student center. This made the student center bigger and better for students.
Celebrating History and Honoring Heroes
During his leadership, Savannah State College celebrated its 100th birthday. This was a big event for the school. A historic building called Adams Hall was fixed up. It became the college's special place for keeping old records and important documents. This is called an archives facility.
Another project was to restore Hill Hall. This project aimed to get $1.5 million to fix up another historic building on campus. Dr. Gardner also helped bring a replica of a U.S. Navy "Blue Angels" jet to the college. This jet honored Donnie Cochran, a famous pilot. It was placed in front of the NROTC Building.
His Passing
Dr. William E. Gardner Jr. passed away in 1991 while he was still serving as president. After his death, Annette K. Brock took over as president.
His Lasting Impact
A building at Savannah State College was named the William E. Gardner Jr. Hall. This was done to remember his ideas for the college. It also showed how much the students liked him.
