August 25, 2003

Stave Writing University History

A history of the University of Connecticut is being prepared for publication to celebrate the 125th anniversary of UConn in 2006. The history is being researched and written by Bruce M. Stave, Board of Trustees distinguished professor of history emeritus and director of the Center for Oral History.

The last full history of UConn was published in 1931 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Connecticut Agricultural College. A more recent history was the 2001 book of historic photos, researched and written by Mark J. Roy '74 (CLAS). Roy is a member of the editorial committee of faculty and staff advising Stave and his group of student research assistants. The committee is led by Richard D. Brown, Board of Trustees distinguished professor of history and director of the UConn Humanities Institute, who conceived the project.

Stave says he has uncovered "treasure troves" of material as he reviews papers and files in the University Archives at the Thomas J. Dodd Research Center.

"The presidential papers, along with other collections and sources, including oral histories, illuminate numerous topics, such as undergraduate life, the role of women and minorities, controversies about academic freedom, the development of research at the University, and the establishment of regional campuses," he says.

The history is supported by contributions from several sources, including the Alumni Association, the UConn chapter of the American Association of University Professors, and the University of Connecticut Foundation.