     |
RELEASED: Sept. 4, 2003
DANVILLE, KY—The 50th anniversary of the death of Centre College legend Fred Vinson will be Monday, Sept. 8, and the College will recognize his remarkable achievements and service to his alma mater and country. This date will also mark the first day of classes at Centre.
The program will take place at 11:45 a.m. in front of Old Centre. In the case of inclement weather, the event will be held at the Combs Center.
All are invited to the 15-minute program. Centre students, staff and faculty who are unable to attend because of classes are encouraged to learn more about Vinson by reading Centre's Web site or by contacting the Communications Office.
Vinson, who graduated from Centre in 1909 and the College's law school in 1911, served in various capacities under both presidents Franklin Roosevelt and Harry Truman. He was chief justice of the United States from 1946 until his death.
Senior Stephen Dexter, Student Government Association president, will emcee the event. Dexter, a member of Phi Delta Theta, is a fraternity brother of Vinson's.
Dan Stroup, professor of government, will speak on Vinson's time on the Supreme Court. Clarence Wyatt, Pottinger Associate Professor of History, will talk of Vinson's early years and dedication to Centre, where he served as a trustee.
Dexter will recount the tradition of "Dead Fred," in which the Phi Delts take Vinson's portrait to Centre athletic contests and other special events, including the 2000 vice presidential debate held on the College's campus.
In addition, Vinson's good friend President Harry Truman will be on hand to say a few words on behalf of one of his closest advisors.
Vinson's portrait will be in attendance, and Barbara Hall, professor of music, will conclude the program by leading the crowd in singing Centre's alma mater to Vinson.
Refreshments will be provided and information on Vinson and Centre's other Supreme Court justice, John Marshall Harlan, will be distributed.
For more on this event, contact Brant Welch at (859) 238-5719.
Click here to learn more about Fred Vinson.
Click here for more on John Marshall Harlan.
- end -
For news archives go to http://www.centre.edu/web/news/newsarchive.html.
Communications Office
Centre College
600 W. Walnut Street
Danville, KY 40422
Public Information Coordinator: Telephone 859-238-5714