20 Facts About Samuel Braden

Samuel Edward Braden served as the tenth president of Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois.

Samuel Braden was recognized for his work during an incredibly tumultuous time in United States history, as life proved difficult amidst the Vietnam War.

Samuel Braden served at Illinois State University between 1967 and 1970, a mere three years.

Samuel Edward Braden was born on June 6,1914, to two missionary parents in Hoihow, Hainan, China.

Besides his time with the Air Force, Samuel Braden's work was mainly focused on education.

Samuel Braden worked as the associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Indiana University in 1954.

Alongside a new Psychology building and a new auditorium, Samuel Braden's presidency required the planning of a South Mall Art Building and a Graduate Study Center, later dubbed the Center for the Visual Arts and University Galleries, respectively.

On May 15,1968, Samuel Braden appointed a Task Force on Inter-Group Relations, which had composed recommendations for improving campus diversity.

Samuel Braden was confident in his ability to handle such topics in a safe, effective way.

Campus' Black Student Association demanded several things from Samuel Braden, including mandatory air time on the school's radio station, as well as representation in the school newspaper.

Samuel Braden had, on one occasion, requested that students not leave their dormitories, for fear of being hurt in community rioting.

Samuel E Braden resigned from his presidency on June 12,1969.

Samuel Braden described his leave as "neither hasty nor capricious," and felt that he no longer wanted to grapple with the issues that faced university presidents at that time.

Samuel Braden was more of a pacifist himself, and the violence and trouble ensuing throughout the country left him feeling incapable of serving the school further.

Samuel Edward Braden passed away August 13,2003, at 89 years old.

Samuel Braden became recognized and respected in the Illinois State University community for generations after his presidency.

Samuel Braden was renowned for his ability to consider both sides of a situation and try to deal with concerns effectively.

Samuel Braden endured one of the most eventful, tumultuous presidencies known to the school at that time.

Samuel Braden faced many social and financial difficulties regarding the university, and was able to grind through them with all the vigor he could muster.

Samuel Braden helped to carry on developmental plans established before his term, and helped the plans get translated into the hands of his successors.