REPORT
OF THE
President, Secretary
and Treasurer
- -—OF-?— S?
WILBERFORCE
UNIVERSITY
To the Twenty-Fifth General Conference of the
A. M. E. Church held in Philadelphia,
Pa., beginning May 3rd,
1916
BISHOP
DANIEL ALEXANDER PAYNE
One of the Founders of the University
WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY.
PRESIDENT'S REPORT.
To the Bishops and Members of the Twenty-fifth General Con¬
ference of the A. M. E. Church.
Reverend Fathers and Brethren:
As President of Wilberforce University I have both the
honor and pleasure of presenting to you the report of this
Institution for the four years beginning June, 1912.
In general I will say that the close of this quadrennium finds
our beloved University far in advance of where it stood four
years ago, in financial standing and prospects, in material addi¬
tions to its buildings, equipment, and teaching force, in the
student body, in organization and efficient management. The
Lord has blessed our efforts, has raised up friehds, sustained the
helping hands of the various boards of the Institution and the
Educational department, and has especially blessed the efforts
of our Bishops of the First Educational District.
At this hundredth anniversary of the A. M. E. Church it
is to be congratulated upon this Mother school that has been
fostered by it, and which has reached such a position in the
world of education, as to be a credit and a delight. The fathers
who laid this educational foundation for the future of the race
are to be held in high honor. It remains now for the Church
most largely to see as a whole that this fostering care is so con¬
tinued and increased as to allow no step backward in the future.
At this moment it will not be amiss for me to occupy a little
time and space in giving a brief resume of the history of the
University, for the sake of the historian, and that the younger
generation of workers may fully appreciate its position and its
right to maintenance and support.
Beginning in 1833 in the Ohio, or Pittsburgh Conference,
with the first utterance in the A. M. E. Church toward fostering
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education we find this resolved into the stream of action that led
in September, 1847, to the opening of "Union Seminary," just
out of Columbus, Ohio. Thus the A. M. E. Church can justly
claim to have made the first organized negro effort for educa¬
tion of the race in this country. The teachers in this early
school were Rev. John M. Brown (later Bishop Brown) and
Mrs. Frances Ellen Watkins Harper of Philadelphia, well known
in Temperance circles and distinguished for her poetic talent.
In 1853, the Cincinnati Conference of the M. E. Church
decided to establish a college for the higher education of the
colored race. In 1856, Tawawa Springs (Sweet water), a sum¬
mer resort, three miles from Xenia, in Greene County, was pur¬
chased and named Wilberforce University in honor of the great
English statesman and benefactor of the colored race, William
Wilberforce. The grounds comprised fifty-two acres, and of
the twenty-four trustees four were colored, Bishop Daniel A.
Payne being one. Governor Salmon P. Chase served as one of
the twenty-four. Rev. M. P. Gaddis was made principal. He
was succeeded by Prof. James K. Parker in 1857, and I have just
recently received a description of these early days written by
his daughter who gives us much of historical interest in her letter.
In 1859, Rev. Richard T. Rust, a white minister of exceptional
ability was made its first president. Under his supervision the
college made rapid growth, but the Civil War blighted its pros¬
pects, for of one hundred students in the University at the
beginning of the war, eighty-eight were from the South. When
patronage from the seceded states ceased, the institution was
forced to suspend in June, 1862. The school which had cost
$40,000.00, had an indebtedness of $10,000.00, and in 1863, it
w^as found necessary to sell the site. The State of Ohio desired
the property. Bishop Payne came to the relief and saved the
day. He did not have ten dollars at his command, but he pledged
$10,000.00 and saved the property to his race.
"Union Seminary, by reason of location and other circum¬
stances, had made slow growth, but it was the pioneer and con¬
tributed largely to the founding of Wilberforce University and
was sold in 1863 and merged into the latter institution. Thus
the internal force and the external force, each working for the
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BISHOP C. T. SHAFFER, D. I).
President of the Board of Trustees
same end, finally reached the crystallization point of a great
school for the higher education of the race, by the race.
"In the reorganization of the University, Bishop Payne
became President and occupied the position for thirteen years.
He had associated with him Rev. James A. Shorter and Prof.
John G. Mitchell. Just as the University seemed to be about to
enter on a new era of prosperity, on April 14, 1865, the day that
the great emancipator, Lincoln, was assassinated, some miscreant
set fire to the main building at Wilberforce and it was destroyed.
No race ever before received two such blows in one day. But
Wilberforce University could not die so long as Bishop Payne
lived. Although he had not secured all of the original purchase
price, $10,000.00, he immediately set to work to raise funds to
rebuild. The first $100.00 was given by a colored woman, Mrs.
James A. Shorter, and very appropriately the $40,000.00
building constructed was christened Shorter Hall. Congress in
1870, appropriated $26,000.00. Chief Justice Salmon P. Chase,
when hp died, bequeathed $10,000.00, and the University re¬
ceived several other large contributions.''
Growth and recognition increased till in 1887, the Legisla¬
ture of Ohio had such confidence in its worth and importance as
a necessary educational factor with a large field of usefulness,
that it made, and still continues to make a large annual ap¬
propriation for the support of a Normal and Industrial Depart¬
ment. Then the General Goverment, under President Cleveland's
administration, organized a Military Department in 1887 and a
Negro West Point graduate, Lieut. John H. Alexander, was ap¬
pointed to take charge. Wilberforce University is the only Negro
school in which there is a Military Department recognized and
maintained by the United States Government. Upon the death
of Lieut. Alexander, another Negro West Point graduate, Lieut.
Chas. Young, (now Major) was detailed to the school, and when
the Spanish War broke out, he went to the front, taking with
him a large contingent of students who fought with honor for
the flag in Cuba and the Philippines, while the military work
in the school was most creditably carried on by advanced stu¬
dents.
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BISHOP B. F. LEE
Member of Executive Board
The University began with fifty-two acres of land, one mam
building, a few small cottages, a primary department of instruc¬
tion, two teachers and a handful of students. Today, the united
schools in operation, aside from the Military, are the College, the
Theological Seminary and a Normal and Industrial Department
instructing in ten well-equipped industries. It has fourteen
brick buildings, including shops and a $60,000.00 Trades Build¬
ing and a Carnegie Library costing $20,000.00, also a number of
frame cottages for teachers and employees. The value of the
entire plant with equipment, is quite $550,000.00. There are
thirty-eight teachers and over 450 students. Over ten thousand
have graduated from its literary and industrial courses. In
fact, there is a host of graduates and undergraduates, who are
men and women of recognized character, ability and influence,
holding high rank in Church, in Education, Business and service
of the Government. So, to the Negro himself, really belongs the
credit of beginning the education of his people; to Ohio belongs
the honor of being the mother of its first school, and to the
A. M. E. Church belongs the honor of making the first system¬
atic plan of the race for its own education—and the first special
effort of any race for the mental uplift of the Negro.
This is the school, men and brethren of this General Con¬
ference, that I am proud to represent as its President, and whose
history traced back to its genesis nearly sixty-nine years ago
must awaken in every breast the determination to maintain it
liberally and perpetuate it gloriously to the honor of the entire
connection. There are many reasons for this.
HIGHER EDUCATION.
While Wilberforce University now stands as all schools more
or less are standing today—for the united education of head,
heart and hand—its work is to produce leaders, and to do this,
it must not suffer its work in Higher Education to lag. In this
connection allow me to restate and emphasize what I said to the
General Conference in my last Quadrennial Report.
I still hold the opinion, as always, that Higher Education,
though it has suffered in the past, either because of neglect or
misconception which so many entertained concerning it, will in
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BISHOP EVANS TYKEE, D. D.
Member of Executive Board
BISHOP J. H. JONES, D. I).
Member of Executive Board
the future be given that place which belongs to it. Our theo¬
logians, physicians, lawyers, men of letters, makers of books,
indeed our leaders generally, must be the product of Higher
Education. The A. M. E. Church, like other Negro churches,
must depend upon its best equipped men, morally and intel¬
lectually, to guide its destiny. In a period like ours where rela¬
tions between the two races are so strained that more and more
there is less association on terms of equality, we must look to our
own schools for such leadership that will enable us in the future
to hold our own in the midst of a vast and complex civilization
that seems in a large measure to be against us.
I regard this as the great opportunity of the African
Methodist Episcopal Church. There is no one University in all
this country maintained and owned by Negroes that has a better
opportunity for service to Church and Race than has Wilberforce
University. It has a most promising future, and only needs the
unanimous support of the Church to further it.
THE PLACE OF WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY.
In the first place I wish to impress this great body of repre¬
sentative men with the fact that the great A. M. E. Church, if it
is to do well its educational work, must decide to have one or
two great universities, aside from other good and worthy schools.
I am not alone in this view. Educators, and those who make it a
business to look into efficiency of schools and recommend im¬
provements, have said—yes, urged the same thing—that Wilber¬
force University with its splendid location, equipment and out¬
look be the chief fostering educational care of the A. M. E.
Church. It needs such so that it can honor itself rightly by
building up at least one great institution, where young men and
women may be thoroughly trained and fitted, not only for the
learned professions, but for a life of service generally for the
race and humanity. Wonderful progress has been made in the
past quadrennium and we look for still greater in the next four
years, with the help of all upon whose shoulders the work must
rest. There is no need of fear as to the outcome, if we will all
work together.
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W. S. SCAEBOEOUGH
President of Wilberforce University
GROWTH AND IMPROVEMENT.
The re-organization of the Normal and Industrial Depart¬
ment, the strengthening of its faculty by the addition of new and
efficient teachers, has been met by a similar re-organization in
the College Department, whereby Dean Gilbert H. Jones, Prof.
D. W. Woodard, and Prof. L. F. Palmer were added to the Col¬
lege faculty, placing the work at the University on a very high
level. What has been done in the College by way of improve¬
ment, etc., and the present needs of the same will be stated by
the Dean of that Department, whose report will be given shortly.
This has all called for increased expenditure, but we have been
nobly assisted toward meeting it. Within the last quadrennium
our monthly appropriation from the State has been raised to
$500.00, an increase of $200.00 since the beginning of the present
administration.
EMERY HALL.
At the last report made to the General Conference by me,
Emery Hall was not completed. I made report of the conditions
at that time. I am now happy to say that this building costing
$50,000.00, all things included, was completed and occupied in
December, 1913, by the girls for whom it was designed. It will
hold seventy-eight girls and has been full ever since it was first
occupied. It is a beautiful building, colonial in style and con¬
sidered as one of the best in the State and well adapted to its
purposes. The furniture alone cost $2600.00, and is all paid
for. There is no debt connected with the building except a small
item due the President for money advanced, which he purposes
to raise, as well as a few hundred dollars still due on contract.
I deem it just to state here in brief that to meet the cost of
this $50,000.00 building, $15,000.00 came from Miss Emery of
England, through the agency of Miss Brown, with my coopera¬
tion ; $17,500.00 came from Mr. Carnegie at my solicitation, and
the remainder I raised through contributions from various
friends. Suffice it to say we have a building of which we should
be proud, and which enhances greatly the value of the property
• of the institution.
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FINANCES AND INDEBTEDNESS.
Within the last year changes have been made in our official
force. Dr. Horace T albert, our Secretary for many years,
resigned and Dr. P. A. Nichols of Kentucky was appointed to
this position. He brings to the office knowledge of business
affairs and efficiency. J. P. Maxwell, long our Treasurer, re¬
signed and his place has been temporarily filled by appointment
of Dr. T. H. Jackson. Our books are now kept in accordance
with plans outlined by educational authorities.
The report of the Secretary and Treasurer of the University
will give you an accurate statement of our financial condition,
both receipts and disbursements for the last quadrennium, and
also the indebtedness of the institution.
It is very important that you know the financial condition
of the institution, its needs, and in some way use your power to
legislate largely to help to meet the same.
It is proper to say at this juncture, that if there had not
been obligations coming down through years to the present
administration, the amount of money raised in the Educational
District, with that coming from the General Church, and that
raised by the President of the Institution, would have met the
requirements for current expenses, and general demands, and
would have left a surplus. But these long standing obligations
had to be met and met out of current funds. As soon as these
obligations are canceled, time can be devoted to the present needs
of the work as they arise. So it is quite necessary that the in¬
debtedness of the University be wiped out as soon as possible.
This is the great incubus that annoys us at all times and should
be removed so that the authorities may have the opportunity of
paying attention to other things which make for the good of the
institution.
What has been done in this quadrennium to establish
financial credit, to enlarge the curriculum, to add to our internal
strength, to pay off debts, to reach the high mark in College
work, to make our institution known to the world, to gain friends,
to pay our teachers, to keep down debt, to add to our assets and
resources, and to keep harmony—all these things have been
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CAPT. B. O. DAVIS
Of the Tenth U. S. Cavalry and Professor of Military Science
and Tactics
emphasized from time to time as positive factors. We have made
great progress along these lines.
We well understand that all institutions—the best of them—
are in debt, and that some of them run behind from $10,000.00
to $50,000.00 a year. But those institutions have means to meet
the deficiency and to proceed without embarrassment. The debt
of Wilberforce is small compared with the debts of other institu¬
tions and the annual deficiency is smaller than any of the institu¬
tions of high standing that I have any knowledge of. The work
has grown and is growing daily, hence the ordinary receipts will
not meet the demands. But we must expect this and recognize
the fact that there will always be a pressure until the University
shall be endowed, and thoroughly so. Not less than $500,000.00
should be the goal in view, and with an endowment of that kind,
Wilberforce University will stand largely upon its own feet and
be able to meet the demands of the times. I mention these mat¬
ters to this body so that it may be moved to exercise its power to
recommend and direct to the end that will make Wilberforce the
greatest institution in the country—the just pride of the Church.
THE FOURTH EDUCATIONAL DISTRICT—BISHOPS SHAFFER,
LEE, AND TYREE.
I feel very sure that the Districts making up the Fourth
Educational District have never done better to support the
University than they have during the last quadrennium.
The efficient service of Bishop Shaffer who has the Third
Episcopal District cannot be expressed in words. He has been
constant, in season and out of season, and has always been on the
alert to help meet the needs of the University, and to see that
standards were improved, and that the place it occupies in the
educational world is maintained. He has kept the men in his
own district informed and has interested them to the extent that
the District has increased its receipts enormously. Bishop Shaf¬
fer's work has redounded, not only to his own honor, but to that
of the institution and the District over which he presides. He
was ably aided by Bishop B. F. Lee, another strong, energetic
and faithful worker in all lines making for, not only of the good
of the Church, but for the good of the people at large. Then,
Bishop Tyree, another stalwart worker, has nobly supplemented
the work and the efforts of Bishop Shaffer, by leading the First
Episcopal District to give more than ever before toward the
support of the school. Nor should we overlook the men under
them, as it was through them the Bishops were able to make
such good reports for educational purposes. We thank all for
their aid and interest and loyalty. Bishop Jones, though repre¬
senting the Ninth Episcopal District, has shown his interest by
uniting with the Bishops mentioned for the work of the Univer¬
sity. The Executive Board composed of nine members has on
the whole proved itself equal to the tasks before it and I am
glad to speak of its willing, helpful service rendered the institu¬
tion, in conducting affairs.
DEATHS OF TRUSTEES.
We have here to record the death of two most distinguished
Trustees of the University. Bishop H. M. Turner, who has been
associated with the work from its founding and who has been a
strong supporter of the same, was called to his reward. It is
not necessary that I should go into eulogy here as to the great
work of this great churchman, as this has already been noted in
the press from time to time. In his death, not only the school
and the church, but the people at large have lost a great man,
and it is with regret that I record it here. Bishop Derrick has
also passed away. He was an equally strong supporter of the
University, and for the previous quadrennium the Bishop of the
Third Episcopal District, also the President of the University
Board of Trustees and of the Executive Board. The work and
service of Bishop Derrick, like that of Bishop Turner, are well
known to you.
At the same time I should record the only death in our
Faculties, that of Prof. Earl Finch, of our College Faculty. He
was Dean of the College and President of the Alumni Associa¬
tion, a graduate of the Normal Course in 1898, and of the
Classical Course in 1900. He was forced to give up the direction
of the Summer School shortly after it had opened in July, 1913,
and return to his home in Bellefontaine, Ohio, where he rapidly
sank from tuberculosis.
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DR. HORACE TALBERT
Ex-Secretary
DR. P. A. NICHOLS
Secretary
He had prospects cf a 1 rillirnt career before him and did
much to inspire the student body intellectually, giving promise
of fine possibilities for his life's work. The loss to the race of
such a young man is to be deeply regretted.
HEALTH.
Dr. S. M. Steward, our resident physician for a number of
years, has been faithful in looking after the young people in
need of medical attention. I am very glad to commend her
services and to say that we are fortunate to have such a woman
connected with the institution where there is so large an attend¬
ance of girls. The following is a brief summary of her report:
She reports the general health of students as "having been
most excellent this year, the school having been signally blessed
during the widely prevalent epidemic of grip, as there were no
complications and attendance at school was not materially
lessened, and no serious eases of illness were found." This, she
attributes "largely to our splendid, healthful environment, to
simple, plain food, regular habits, out-of-door exercises and well
ventilated dormitories," all of which bears us out in an oft-re¬
peated statement as to the healthfulness of our desirable situation
for a school. A few minor surgical cases are reported, but none
serious.
OUR RELIGIOUS LIFE.
The religious life of the institution for the entire quad-
rennium has been good—good from every standpoint. Wilber-
force has been remarkably fortunate in the kind and character
of the men appointed as pastors of the "Church of the Holy
Trinity," our College Church. Rev. T. G. Steward w7as a most
excellent pastor and had remarkable success in that he was able
to meet the demands and the wishes of the entire institution, in¬
cluding the Faculties and students, and friends of the com¬
munity. As I said of him in a previous report, "As a theol¬
ogian, as a preacher, as a man of letters, as one imbued thorough¬
ly with the spirit of college life, and the need of college students,
he elevated the tone of the church service to a high point."
Bishop Shaffer when he entered upon his work as Presiding
Officer of the Third Episcopal Tistrict, did not lose sight of the
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fact that it was important that the pastors of our church should
be exceptionally bright and eminent in Theology, and therefore
appointed such men as Dr. T. H. Jackson and Prof. A. W.
Thomas, the latter being the present pastor. He has caught the
spirit of the institution as did Chaplain Steward, and is able to
meet all the religious demands. The revival was a great one
this year and brought about considerable additions to the church.
I mention these facts to show what part the preacher has to play
in elevating the tone and character of our religious college life.
We have a Religious Committee, with a member of the
Faculty as Chairman, who has the general oversight of the
religious work of the institution, and who is responsible for the
grade and character of such work.
DISCIPLINE.
The University has grown to such an extent that many of
the former methods of government and control cannot be applied
to a heterogeneous body of students, such as we now have. Con¬
ditions have changed; men and women have changed, so have
the boys and girls, but discipline is necessary and must be
vigorously applied when needed. It has been administered
heretofore largely under the direction of a Discipline Committee
composed of the most experienced and best fitted members of
the Faculty. More recently, however, it has been placed in the
hands of the Commandant as Military Instructor, and with good
results. I have visited the best colleges of the country, and have
studied their methods of government and management and can
truly say that Wilberforce stands well in comparison with them.
We have to congratulate ourselves upon the absence of rowdyism
and the defiance of law that characterizes so many institutions
of learning. We have had some unpleasant features to deal with,
and have been obliged to treat some cases with severity, but we
feel that these have been treated for the best good of all con¬
cerned.
DEPARTMENTS.
The General Faculty.
The General Faculty is composed of all the Faculties of the
University. It meets monthly to discuss in common the best
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SPIOETEE HALL CAMPUS
ways to advance the work as a whole and to strengthen the in¬
stitution in its work of elevating and enlightening those who
come to it. The Normal and Industrial Faculty is strong, having
some of the best educators of the country, and with the Theo¬
logical Faculty, it renders great aid in carrying out the work for
which the institution was originally founded.
The College Faculty.
The College Faculty is possibly as strong as any one of its
kind in the country, representing as it does the best institutions
with the variety of training that such afford. As to research
and study I am glad to say that the members of the Faculty are
devoting much of their spare time to advanced methods and
systems in education and to research study in lines necessary to
improve their respective departments. This is a good sign and
should in every way be commended by the authorities as a step
in advance. A Research Club is conducted under the direction
and management of Prof. Woodard, Professor of Mathematics,
which is doing much to raise the intellectual standard and stim¬
ulate the Faculties to original work.
Here we must mention the original work done by Chaplain
Steward who has put forth two volumes in the last quadrennium.
His connection with us should inspire and push forward the
younger men. Dr. G. W. Henderson is also doing strong literary
work for the A. M. E. Church Review, editing its department in
Homiletics with great ability. He, too, is one of the older, scholar¬
ly men who have the respect of all, and reflect credit upon and
add dignity to the institution.
TIME LIMIT.
One great step in advance and in keeping with the policies
of the best educational institutions, is the removal of time limit
of the Faculties by the Boards of Trustees of the C. N. & I. and
the University proper. This is a step that adds greatly to in¬
terest, to strong work, to loyalty and to efficiency. Every
reputable school sees this and has taken such steps. We must
advance with the best, and I feel this to be an important step
that lets no one be removed without cause.
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GALLOWAY HALL
The following is the personelle of the College Faculty:
THE COLLEGE FACULTY.
Chaplain T. G. Steward, D. D., Yice President of the Insti¬
tution, is a graduate of the Philadelphia Divinity School, and is
a man of wide experience, an author, and is recognized as a man
of letters—possibly the most conspicuous in that line now con¬
nected with the institution. He holds the Assistant Chair of
History and is Instructor in Spanish. His experience and knowl¬
edge of the subject, his research and investigation, all make him
a very desirable member of our Faculty. He has written several
books, and the one that is now before the public, "The Haitian
Revolution," has attracted wide attention in this country and
abroad.
Prof. G. W. Henderson, D. D., who occupies the Chair of
Latin, and also teaches German, is a graduate of the University
of Vermont and of Yale Theological Seminary, and has spent
two years in Berlin in special study. He is a teacher of long
experience, having taught some years in both Straight and Fisk
Universities, where as far as I can learn he served with accept¬
ance. He came to us highly recommended. He has knowledge
and ability and possesses the respect of the student body. He
is the editor of the Homiletics Department of the A. M. E.
Review.
Prof. Gilbert H. Jones, Ph.D., Dean of the College of Arts
and Science, occupies the Chair of College English and Philos¬
ophy. He is a graduate of Wilberforce University, class, '02,
and made a good record while a student here. After graduating
he was for some time a student in Ohio State University and in
Dickinson College, Pa., where he pursued special courses of
study. He then became a student at Jena, Germany, where he
received the Degree of Ph.D. He has experience and with his
attainments and record we regard him as a very desirable addi¬
tion to our Faculty.
Prof. Bruce H. Greene, Ph.B., of the Chair of Science is a
graduate of Brown University, and is a man regarded by all as
thoroughly equipped for the work in his department. He is
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4
thorough and painstaking and is a man of research and in¬
vestigation. He came to the University with the prestige and
recommendation of Brown University back of him and has de¬
veloped well. He is possibly one of the most popular instructors
in the institution. He has shown earnestness and enthusiasm,
ambition, diligence, industry and mastery of subjects taught.
He has the ability to inspire, as well as to instruct.
Prof. D. W. Woodard, M. S., who occupies the Chair of
Mathematics, is a graduate of Wilberforce University, class, '03.
He is every inch a scholar and a mathematician. Like Professor
Greene, he is a man who has mastered the subjects which he
teaches. He is an author and a student. After leaving Wilber¬
force University he took a post-graduate course in the University
of Chicago, maintaining the same high standard there that he
reached here at Wilberforce. For some years he taught at
Tuskegee where he stood well and had the endorsement not only
of the Principal of that institution, but of all the trustees and
members of the Faculty.
Prof. L. F. Palmer, B. A., who occupies the Chair of History,
is one of our recent graduates of the class of 1911, and also a
graduate of the University of Michigan, where he took high
rank. On going to Michigan University he kept up the same
high degree of scholarship that he was known to possess at Wil¬
berforce. He has been with us three years. Prof. Palmer has
not only high literary attainments but youth, enthusiasm and
willingness to work hard and well.
Prof. A. J. White, B. A., who holds the Chair of Greek, is a
graduate of Harvard University and has served as instructor at
Wiley University, Marshall, Texas. He came from there to
Wilberforce, bringing with him excellent recommendations. He
has proved himself a very superior teacher in Greek, as also in
French and German. Prof. White is a student and has the
ability to make students.
Miss Hallie Q. Brown, B. S., who is a graduate of Wilber¬
force University and well known throughout the country for her
elocutionary ability, is instructor in English and Elocution. She
—26—
is enthusiastic and energetic, giving good service in her lines of
work.
Miss Ida F. Horton is a graduate from the New England
Conservatory of Music. She brought high recommendations from
her instructors in Boston, and from the school where she taught.
She is thoroughly prepared in the latest methods of instruction,
both in instrumental and in vocal culture. She is enthusiastic,
progressive, an indefatigable worker and helper in all lines.
Captain B. 0. Davis, of whom we speak at length elsewhere,
is instructor in Military Science and Tactics.
Miss Bernice Saunders is a member-elect of this Faculty.
She is a maxima cum laude graduate of 1915 from our Classical
Course, and is now spending a year at Radcliffe for added prep¬
aration.
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EMEEY IIALL
REPORT OF DEAN OF COLLEGE DEPARTMENT.
Mr. President:
It is a pleasure for me to report to you at this time upon
the condition of the work of the College and its growth during
the last four years.
In the first place the present work of the College is pro¬
gressing nicely. We have been particularly favored this year
in registering a high grade of students in all courses of the
University. From the reports coming into this office from the
teachers it is evident that in both quality and quantity the work
done is well in advance of other years. This speaks well both
for the student and teacher inasmuch as there has been a system¬
atic effort to improve the work by bringing in the latest and
most advanced texts, increasing the amount of assignments and
demanding fuller preparation and reciting in the work assigned.
In the preparation of the lessons and in obtaining an enlarged
view of the relations of the assignment to kindred work, the
library with its equipment of some 15,000 volumes for collateral
reading, has been of invaluable aid both to student and teacher.
ENROLLMENT.
The enrollment of the institution has kept pace with its
growth along other lines. We are about a dozen and a half or
two dozen students behind our usual enrollment. But inasmuch
as all Negro Universities and many white institutions reported
a like falling off in their enrollment, there is in this slump no
grounds for complaint. With us, however, there is a compensat¬
ing fact of wThich we may justly be proud. Despite the small
slump in enrollment recorded we have been more than blessed
in the large number of high school graduates which we have
enrolled. This office along with others of the institution has
made several canvasses for graduates of accredited high schools
and the returns have in all instances been gratifying. The
canvass is still being pushed by the office. About a thousand
—29—
MITCHELL HALL
circular letters have been sent out to the prospective graduates
of accredited high schools calling their attention to the strategic
location of Wilberforce University, its distinctive merits as an
educational institution for Negroes, such as its religious atmos¬
phere and traditions, its magnificent equipment, its splendid
Faculty, and inviting them for these reasons to avail themselves
of the superb educational advantages which it offers. In addi¬
tion it might be added that our enrollment is always up to our
means of accommodation. That is to say, we always have about
all of the students that we can accommodate with our present
equipment.
GROWTH.
In the light of some recent unfavorable criticism I deem it
wise to say a word or two about the growth and expansion of
the work of the College.
The growth of the College has, all things considered, been
satisfactory. In some instances the progress has been very
marked. Every one at the institution has been alive and it is
safe to say that wherever possible no opportunity has been
allowed to slip that could be successfully utilized for the advance
of the work. It will be impossible in this brief report to recount
all phases of the progress and expansion made. I will mention,
however, a few of the more important and let them speak for
themselves.
To begin with, the Academy, under action taken several
years ago, passed from a three-year course to a four-year course.
The benefits accruing from this are immeasurable inasmuch as
it placed us on a level with, and enabled us to operate success¬
fully in competition with the best high schools of the country.
In the College all of the work has undergone revision and
expansion.
There has been added a full course in Philosophy, including
courses in History of Philosophy, Introduction to Philosophy,
(Problems of Philosophy), Psychology, Logic, Ethics and Sociol¬
ogy. I think the statement is safe when I say that Wilberforce
University is the only University for Negroes that carries such
a course.
—31—
,'vX:~
O'NEILL HALL
In the English Courses where there was formerly only one
Course in College we now have four, two required and two elec¬
tive. In the modern language courses Spanish has been added
to the curriculum because of the growing demand for it in busi¬
ness and in professional and social life. In French and German
the courses have been extended one year each to give stability
and solidarity to the collegiate phase of the work. In mathe¬
matics, instead of two courses in College, the work has been
expanded and now there are four courses in collegiate mathe¬
matics, two required and two elective. In History where there
were no distinctly collegiate courses we now have four, one re¬
quired and three elective. In Science the past four years have
seen a complete reorganization of the department in the establish¬
ment and equipment of a splendid chemical and physical lab¬
oratory. A biological laboratory has also been established and
is being rapidly fitted up with modern equipment. With these
laboratories completely equipped, the College will be in a position
to meet competition in the work in science from whatever source
it may appear. Besides that, the courses in chemistry have been
enlarged so that now for the first time we are offering two courses
in college chemistry. To the course in college physics another
ejective course has been added.
In addition to this advancement and expansion the College
took a very advanced stand recently, wThen, in order to meet ad¬
vanced views in education and to accommodate our work to its
latest demands, it abandoned the old system of carrying set
courses and inaugurated a more liberal system of electives.
Under the same impulse, prompted by educational ideals
which were met on every side in the general educational trend
of the country, two courses in education, the one scientific, lead¬
ing to the degree B. S. in Education; the other classical, lead¬
ing to the degree B. A. in Education were established. These
courses are intended to enlarge the field of usefulness of the
University and bring to it a larger enrollment as well as to enable
it to keep pace with other educational institutions throughout
the country.
—33—
5
In submitting this report let me call your attention, Mr.
President, to the fact that this is not a record of plans yet to be
realized, but a record of achievements already inaugurated and
now in operation in the institution.
NEEDS.
As to the needs of the College I am most interested in that
phase of its needs that bears directly upon the educational work.
There it is a matter of equipment and teachers. As for equip¬
ment, we need increased teaching supplies, such as wall maps,
blackboards and supplies, seats for students and desks for teach¬
ers. We are managing to get along with what we have along
these lines, but we are sorely in need here of more and improved
equipment. If you could lend any assistance in the further
equipment of the Biological Laboratory you would do the work
much good.
Our most urgent need, however, is for teachers. If you can
possibly see your way to meet the additional expense of more
teachers I most earnestly suggest that we have two or three more
teachers for the College. I am not asking herein indiscriminately
for teachers. We need them and need them badly, but I con¬
sider it a short-sighted policy that would employ teachers with¬
out the means of paying them the contracted salary being
reasonably insured. Wilberforce as an educational institution
for Negroes is peculiarly situated. Being situated as it is on
Northern soil where the doors of all educational institutions are
open to Negro students, if the institution is to live and succeed
it must meet these institutions, at least to a fair degree, in equip¬
ment and teaching force. So that Wilberforce, more than any
educational institution in the connection, should be equipped
well physically, and above all things should be manned by an
adequate and competent teaching force. Anything less than this
is suicidal. Educational institutions situated in the South do
not have to meet the competition either in the advancement of
the courses, the equipment, or the teaching force that we do.
Any course we offer, in Academy or College, if we are to draw
students for it, must be planned and manned on a plane and to
a degree to compare favorably with a like course in any Northern
—34—
High School or College. This is our fight, this is our burden.
I do hope, therefore, Mr. President, that you will find it possible
to convince others of the seriousness of our needs and bring them
to provide means for us to so equip and man the institution that
we can meet the competition of Northern schools and grow
abreast with them. We are in the "Association of Colleges and
Universities for Negro Youth," and also in the "Association of
America Colleges," and "Ohio Association of Colleges," though
all the conditions have not yet been complied with, chiefly be¬
cause of our lack in equipment and teaching force. But we must
remedy this soon.
Respectfully,
Gilbert H. Jones,
Dean of the College.
—;<5-
CAKNTOOTE LIBRARY
MILITARY DEPARTMENT.
As is well known, Wilberforce University is the only Negro
institution in the country that has an officer detailed by the
National Government as Professor of Military Science and
Tactics. Lieut. B. 0. Davis served us in this capacity some years
ago, and was followed by Lieut. John A. Green of the Twenty-
fourth Infantry. At the expiration of the latter's term of ser¬
vice, at my request the War Department in 1915 reappointed
Lieut. Davis to take charge of the work here.
The boys have been placed under his direction, and as
disciplinarian he has looked after such interests of the Univer¬
sity as far as the boys are concerned. I regard this as an im¬
portant step in advance, because by his training and influence
he is able to exercise the necessary authority to bring the dis¬
cipline of the school up to the high water mark. He is a most
efficient officer, a man of truth and honor, a gentleman, and in
every sense a most admirable guide for our young people.
The Military Department has grown in numbers and im¬
proved in conditions very greatly. There are one hundred and
fifty in ranks this year. The dress of the boys has been changed
from the blue to the olive drab, and wThen in line the battalion
makes a very commendable appearance in every way. Lieut.
Davis, after having passed the required examination and by
virtue of his fitness and excellent service, has been recently pro¬
moted to the Captaincy by the War Department.
MUSIC.
Our Instrumental Music Department is doing well under
Miss Ida Horton who is in every way efficient. She is hampered,
however, by conditions, as she greatly needs more room and in¬
struments to meet the demands for instruction. Properly en¬
couraged and housed, this work could soon be made self-support¬
ing and rapidly develop into a real Conservatory. Money is
needed, however, to bring this about.
—37—
THE LIBRARY.
The University is very fortunate in securing the services,
through the C. N. & I. Department, of Miss Naomi Pollard, as
librarian. She is an A. B. graduate of Northwestern University,
also a graduate of the Library Training School and comes to us
with three years of experience in the Public Library of Chicago.
This fact alone clearly indicates her fitness for the work which
has been assigned to her. She has brought our library into a
very fine condition for work. The building is now being con¬
nected with the electric light system, which will be completed in
a short time. The following is a summary of her report:
In November, 1914, a reorganization of the library was
begun and the system in vogue in most of the libraries of the
country was instituted. Since then a large number of new books
has been added to the collection, and we now have a creditable'
showing of new volumes—in all quite 2,000. The Reference
Room contains a collection of 625 volumes, including most of the
best and most recent books recommended especially for reference
work. These books, largely on account of their size and cost,
do not circulate, but many volumes are in constant use daily by
students who are threshing out the problems of the class rooms.
In all, the present collection numbers 10,000 volumes, which in¬
clude hundreds of government documents, valuable for research
work, 40 magazines, 2 daily papers, 8 weekly papers, 2 German
magazines and 1 German newspaper—all adding to the facilities
of the library. The average circulation of books is 456 per
month. The average attendance is 4,150 per month.
SUMMER SCHOOL.
A summer school has been maintained here two summers,
in which teachers from the College and Normal and Industrial
Department are employed, together with other noted educators
from abroad. Dean Finch was in charge of the first session until
his illness. Prof. Lewis Moore, of Howard University, was in
charge of the second, and Dean Jones has charge of the coming
one, June 19 to July 29, 1916. These sessions have been success¬
ful in point of numbers and quality of work done. Credit is
given for studies pursued and in this way a student may not
—38—
only make up back work, hut even shorten the time necessary to
finish a course. The present session promises to be a very
successful one, as vigorous efforts are being made to reach a
large and desirable class of students and teachers, and replies
are such as to justify our hopes. The project is financed through
the C. N. & I. Department and fees.
STUDENT BODY AND ACTIVITIES.
We have enrolled this year 454 students. We have an ex¬
cellent class of young men and women registered. There is an
increasing number coming from other states, and the indica¬
tions point to continued growth. Our College Classes are on the
increase—a thing that is very desirable. We are hoping to have
in the near future at least 350 in these classes.
Intellectually our students measure well with other colleges.
They debate with various institutions that, by virtue of the
standing of their college, form an inter-collegiate Association,
and have been very successful in winning debates—having won
two this Spring. The Debating Club is an active body.
In Athletics they also measure up well. They are proud to
record the victory over the noted Chinese team from Honolulu,
last year, and will play the same team this year. A new gymna¬
sium to be provided by the State Department will add greatly
to the health and enthusiasm of our young people.
OUR AFRICAN STUDENTS.
Mr. Kalane, who graduated last year, is pursuing a course
elsewhere and has the promised help of a wealthy friend to aid
in financing a school in Africa for him.
The African Quartette is in great demand and some help
accrues to the boys in this way. As a whole they are manly
boys, only needing guidance under the new situations in this
country. The Missionary Board has given aid to several in the
last quadrennium.
FOUNDERS' DAY ACTIVITIES.
Founders' Day has been always an occasion of unusual in¬
terest and an inspiration to all who have had the opportunity of
being present. As is well known the institution observes the
24th of February in memory of the birth of Bishop Daniel A.
—39—
THE PROPOSED SCIENCE BUILDING
Payne, through whom in 1863, the University fell into the hands
of the Church. This day has become a great occasion in Univer¬
sity life. So great has become the interest in what the day
suggests that the entire First Educational District, under the
leadership of its bishops has taken part financially, as well as
otherwise, to make it a memorable occasion. The men of this
Educational District are enthusiastic as was shown on our last
Anniversary, February 24th, when their contributions amounted
to $2270.75 aside from $545.00 from other sources—larger than
any sum we have yet raised on that day.
SCHOLARSHIP FUNDS.
All institutions need scholarships to assist needy, but worthy
students to secure an education. There is a large number of
young men and women throughout the country with brain and
character who are anxious to secure an education, but who have
not the means to do so. If we could offer at least fifty or one
hundred annual scholarships of $50.00 each, I am sure it would
be a great inducement to the young people referred to to take
higher courses of training in order to fit themselves better for
leadership. It is sincerely hoped that the Church at this Centen¬
nial gathering may make some provision for such scholarships,
with the necessary restriction whereby these worthy young men
-and women may properly train themselves for their life's work.
Another great need is for Fellowships, where our college
students who have completed a course at Wilberforce may take
-advanced work at other institutions, at home and abroad. I am
hoping that some such provisions may be made at an early date
that we may help on the best students and increase the interest
in higher education. An example of this may be found in the
case of Miss Bernice Saunders, who is now a student at Rad-
cliffe this year, after graduating from our College Course last
June, and who by election of our Trustee Board will be with us
next year as an instructor in one of our departments.
ENDOWMENT.
On several occasions have I called the attention of the Board
of Trustees, and four years ago the attention of this Body, to the
need of an Endowment of $250,000.00 or $500,000.00, whereby
—41—
6
the work of the institution may be strengthened and perpetuated.
The relation of this mother school to the General Church makes
it a matter not out of place at this General Conference, to ask
it to assist the institution in accomplishing this result. The need
is all the more imperative because the institution is in Ohio in
the Black Belt of that State, and is in competition with the white
schools of the State. I am glad to say, however, that Wilberforce
belongs to the "Association of American Colleges," and
"Association of Ohio Colleges," and is holding her own notwith¬
standing limited means. It is hoped, however, that at no distant
day we shall have the necessary endowment to make the institu¬
tion as strong as we desire. If this is begun, we shall find
friends to assist. They are only waiting to see what the Church
will do.
As Wilberforce is a school of the whole connection with
trustees from all the conferences, though located in the First
Educational District, there should be no sectional lines, no
state lines, but it should receive the warm, cordial supporrt of
the entire Church. We urge the connection to further the in¬
terests of Wilberforce University, for here is an excellent op¬
portunity to link our education with that of the best institutions
of the land and so help increase the prestige of the Church and
be a pride to our whole connection. Give us one great institu¬
tion with adequate support. Let the other institutions be like¬
wise cared for and kept at a high water mark.
NEEDED BUILDINGS.
Now that the Girls' Dormitory has been secured, it is very
necessary that we erect as soon as possible a much needed Science
Building and a College Chapel. As the institution is continually
growing it is necessary that these buildings, with others we have
in mind, should be secured by the College as soon as we can get
funds to do so. With the added buildings and the general im¬
provement planned, Wilberforce with its already beautiful sur¬
roundings will compare favorably with any other institution in
the country. What is needed is money and in sufficient quanti¬
ties to meet every need that shall arise from the growth in
number of students and from the demands brought about by the
12—
place of the College in the Educational world. There is no rea¬
son why we should not have 700 students, yes, a thousand stu¬
dents. The thing to do is to provide the facilities for maintain¬
ing such a number of patrons.
There should be a building where Music could be taught,
apart from the work of other departments. Such a building will
enable us to give more thorough instruction along musical lines
for those who desire to become accomplished musicians. There
are many desirous of taking music—piano and organ—and if
such a building could be erected, in time it would pay for itself.
There is an urgent need of such to constitute the beginning of a
real Conservatory of Music, which should be a part of our grow¬
ing "Wilberforce. The Normal and Industrial Department has
already provided for a Gymnasium and a Central Recitation
Hall for all classes of all departments. A hospital and a number
of shops in which the industries are to be taught are also pro¬
vided for.
HISTORIC SHORTER HALL.
After the completion of Emery Hall, the Girls' Dormitory,
Shorter Hall was turned over entirely to the boys for dormitory
purposes. This building is fifty years old and more, and has
served us long and well. It is historic. A building like this
should not be left to crumble and fall. It is therefore necessary
to remodel it, and to do it as soon as possible, thus making it a
fit habitation for boys. We cannot pass through another sum¬
mer without making the needed repairs for September session.
I feel sure that the members of the General Conference repre¬
senting the entire Church will feel that this historic building of
the mother school, named for Bishop James A. Shorter, should
be put into proper shape at once. We need, absolutely need,
$10,000.00 for that purpose.
—43—
WHAT OTHERS SAY ABOUT WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY
AND ITS WORK.
Ex-President Taft says: "First, I want to congratulate
Wilberforce University on having the influence to bring together
so large and intelligent an audience * * * but, what I am anxious
to do is to testify by my presence to the deep interest I have
taken in the progress of that institution of learning, which for
fifty years has been in my native State, and has been so full of
usefulness for the race and for the country."—From address
of March 8, 1910.
Justice Harlan says: "When we find an Ohio University
with the personnel of which Ohio public men are acquainted,
endorsed by such men as our honored President and Senator
Dick, we may be satisfied that if we help it we are helping a
good institution.''—From address of March 8, 1910.
Ex-Senator Dick says: "She (Ohio) is as proud of Wilber¬
force tonight as of any other institution of learning within her
bounderies, and in the effort that my friend, Dr. Scarborough,
is making to broaden its field of usefulness. * * * It is just as
much the white man's part to contribute to that end and by
contribution let something speak more eloquent than words, let
it be cash. It is for you to think upon the whole matter as a
"business proposition, and my word for it, you will never make a
"better investment. * * *"
President Henry Churchill King, (Oberlin College) says:
"lam glad to express my confidence in the value and importance
of the work which Wilberforce University is doing and my con¬
viction that under the leadership of the new president, W. S.
Scarborough, the University may reasonably expect to go for¬
ward to still greater work. I believe that money invested in the
University will be well invested, and that President Scarborough
would make sure that the money would be wisely and economical¬
ly applied. I am glad thus to commend both the University and
President Scarborough, and to express the hope that the re¬
sources of the University may be rapidly increased.''
—45—
Ex-Senator T. E. Burton says: "It gives me great pleasure
to say a most cordial word in behalf of Wilberforce University.
I have known its President, Mr. W. S. Scarborough, for some
years and have had occasion to become well acquainted with the
work and aims of the institution. It stands for the liberal1 de¬
velopment of higher education of the colored race, and the
recognition given it by the Ohio Legislature, places it among
the prominent institutions in the State. I earnestly bespeak the
most friendly consideration for and attention to its claims.
"Wilberforce has had a long and honorable record and it
has been a power of good in the past, and I have reason to hope
and believe that under your direction, it will do still greater
things in the future. While I have never had the opportunity
to examine its work, I feel sure that it is deserving of the sup¬
port of all those who are interested in the education of the colored
race. I intend, as opportunity offers, to visit the institution and
then I can speak from personal examination of its worth.''—H. B.
Frissell, Principal Hampton Institute, Hampton, Va.
"The institution over which President Scarborough pre¬
sides, is a constant and positive force for the best things in
education of both mind and heart."—0. T. Corson, Ex-State
School Commissioner of Ohio, and Ex-President National Edu¬
cational Association.
"Wilberforce has for many years occupied a prominent
place in the education of our colored people. Its work is highly
practical and is worthy of every encouragement. The institu¬
tion is in need of increased facilities and more liberal endow¬
ment, and President Scarborough is now devoting his personal
efforts to that end. He is entitled to confidence, and I take great
pleasure in offering the assurance that any contributions placed
with him will be devoted most carefully to a worthy cause."—
Ex-Governor Andrew L. Harris.
"Wilberforce University was established for the higher
education of our colored people, and has accomplished a great
work in educating teachers and preachers and others who are
laboring for the elevation of their people. It has had a wide,
—46—
uplifting influence which has been felt all over the country.
The school is in pressing need of funds with which to prosecute
its work and meet current expenses, and is compelled to appeal
to the public for a helping hand. In view of its past and the
work in which it is now engaged, it deserves a liberal support
from the friends of the race it represents, and I commend it most
cordially to the liberality of those having funds to use in behalf
of Christian education. I know of no better investment for good
that one can make.''—Asa S. Bushnell, Ex-Governor of Ohio.
"During my Trusteeship of Wilberforce, I had occasion to
see the superior work of this renowned institution and what it is
doing for the general education of the colored youth of our State
and country, and it gives me unusual pleasure to recommend
Wilberforce University most heartily to all who are interested
in the elevation of our colored people, as worthy of their favor
and liberal support."—John B. Peasle, Former Superintendent
of Schools, Cincinnati, Ohio.
"My sympathies have always been enlisted for Wilberforce
and its prosperity. This for two reasons: In the first place the
cause which it represents is a most deserving one. The sooner
we can obliterate the race prejudice which exists in this country,
the better it will be for all concerned, and there is no way in
which this can be so successfully done, as by education—just
such as Wilberforce is giving to the colored youth of this
country.
"Another reason for my warm attachment for Wilberforce
is that for many years those who were instrumental in calling it
into existence, were good friends of mine; they had the cause
at heart and worked faithfully for it. I only hope that those
who are now at the helm will be equally faithful in the work that
touches their hands. Where so much is at stake for humanity,
personal considerations are hardly to be thought of. Undying
fame awaits everyone of these noble workers their names will
go down in history.
"I wish I were a millionaire, or even in affluent circum¬
stances. This would enable me to do something worth while for
—47—
Wilberforce. But you may rest assured that any assistance
which I can render will be most cheerfully given."—(Signed)
S. W. Dodds, M. D. (The Dodds' Hygeian Home), St. Louis, Mo.
"Wilberforce needs all she can get, and one of the first
things to be provided, is plenty of dormitory room, so that in¬
stead of housing three hundred students, more or less, you can
take care of from three to four times that number. Then, with
a good endowment fund, and an able corps of instructors in all
the departments, the University wuold stand abreast of the age.
I am personally familiar with the University, its work and needs,
and have the highest regard for President Scarborough who is
devoting himself to this work."—(Signed) James R. Garfield, Jr.
Auditor of State A. W. Donahey, in a long appreciative
article published as third of a series on the schools of the State
says, speaking of its history and early efforts: '' These insured
the future growth and prosperity of Wilberforce University
which has culminated today in not only the leading colored
university in America, but one that ranks as one of the best
small colleges in the country, white or black.
"The influence of Wilberforce on the mental, social and
moral welfare of the colored race not only of Ohio, but of the
whole world, is incalculable. Ten thousand students have re¬
ceived training at Wilberforce. Five hundred teachers have
gone forth into every state and into all lands to uplift the race;
many are teachers in and presidents of other colleges; some are
professional men and hundreds are splendid mechanics, due to
industrial training at Wilberforce.
"Wilberforce University is worthy of every assistance. A
large addition to the endowment would be a great boon, enabl¬
ing the Trustees to pay the instructors better salaries, which are
now surprisingly meager.
'' It stands for the education of the 1 head, heart and hand.
Wilberforce University is doing as much as any organization or
institution in America to animate the colored race with an ambi¬
tion to make this inspiring motto a transforming principle in
their lives."
—49—
7
FUTURE PLANS.
These briefly stated, include the constant effort to enlarge
our work, to raise funds to help meet expenses, to stimulate to an
endowment and to add a Science Building in the near future.
The war has materially interfered with benefactions, and
friends who have helped in the past advise waiting a short time
until financial conditions of the country regain a more normal
state. All our energies are bent to push forward the College
work in particular so that it Mall meet all educational demands.
If this General Conference asks why I, as President of Wil-
berforce University, bring all these things to its notice, I answer,
because Wilberforce University is the mother school of the
Church—the only one of its schools where the Church at large
has a more or less direct interest and guidance of its affairs;
because it is a school that is historical and should be looked upon
as especially equipped and fitted to demonstrate the capability
of the race and Church to manage well educational matters;
because it now stands without the adequate necessary support
from the Church to help it in its effort to measure up to the
increasing educational standards; because with the cooperation
of the entire connection and of its loyal alumni it could be made
in every sense a glory to the Church and race; and because in
the appointment of Trustees to carry on its affairs this body can
materially help, by proper legislation, in seeing to it that such
appointees are men fitted by education and experience for such
a task—a representative working body in both numbers and
efficiency.
REDUCTION OF NUMBER OF TRUSTEES.
At the last General Conference the matter of reducing the
number of Trustees of Wilberforce was taken up, discussed,
legislated upon, with the result of considerable reduction in this
number. This was a step in the right direction—a step that
every educator must approve of, for it means efficiency in a way
that cannot be met otherwise. A small efficient board of busi¬
ness men, educators, if you please, is our great need. The fact
that these have gone through school before will be of advantage,
and they will do far more than an unwieldy board representing
numbers. I am sure all business men will see this to be true.
—50—
We are glad to say, however, that the Trustees have always
been enthusiastic and have done the best they could, but upon
business principles I would suggest further reduction—a reduc¬
tion in such way as not to lessen the universal interest the
Church ought to feel in Wilberforce University as the leading
institution, and a reduction which will increase its moral, in¬
tellectual and financial support. Let us have a smaller working
body, and a list of honorary Trustees as some sister Church
schools. This will keep interest, enthusiasm, and link us to the
whole Church and so make our work most efficiently managed.
RECOMMENDATIONS.
To the end, therefore, of enlisting the hearty support of this
body for the good of its oldest school, I wish to recommend,
That this General Conference signalize the One Hundredth
Anniversary of the A. M. E. Church by demonstrating its ability
and determination to sustain the educational work of its mother
school in a suitable manner and in keeping with the dignity of
the Church. That it do this:
1. By legislating to the end that the Educational System
of the Church be so improved as to make it productive of greater
good to the institutions that are to be benefitted by it.
2. By appointing a Committee to formulate a plan for a
small and efficient working Board of Trustees with a set of
representative Honorary Trustees who will keep the school in
connection with the entire Church.
3. That it make some adequate appropriation in order to
repair Shorter Hall.
4. That it plan at least fifty scholarships to be given to
worthy youths prepared for College work, thus assisting in sus¬
taining the College Department.
5. That it set about planning to raise an Endowment for
this one of its institutions of at least $250,000.00, so we can have
one school at least to meet advanced educational demands.
6. That it give acquiescence to the plans proposed by the
following resolutions passed in the Ohio Annual Conference,
with which resolutions the President of the University is in
hearty accord, as wise, sensible, and just.
I.
Whereas, Wilberforce University is the mother of all
educational institutions in the great A. M. E. Church, and the
pioneer seat of learning for the race, and is now educating young
men and women from every section of the United States, Africa
and the islands of the sea, as no other school of the Church,
thereby increasing her burden and obligation and
Whereas, the great State of Ohio is maintaining and foster¬
ing the C. X. & I. Department with unstinted support, thus
making financial support which the Church side of the institu¬
tion is now receiving entirely inadequate to cope with the
ponderous weight of influence and money behind the C. N. & I.
Department; and
Whereas, the last General Conference held in Kansas City,
Mo., May, 1912, enacted a law equally dividing between Wilber¬
force University and Payne Theological Seminary all the money
raised by the Connection for educational work in the First
Educational District.
Whereas, the faculty and administrative force of the Uni¬
versity will more than double that of the Seminary, and that the
expense aside from teachers' salaries of the Seminary can in no
way be compared to those of the University; and
Whereas, we believe the Seminary could very well dispense
with one of its present faculty of four members, there being only
classes junior, middle and senior, thus necessitating the idleness
of one teacher at each recitation period, and since the great bulk
of recitation work is done in the morning of each day, we be¬
lieve also that three competent teachers could do the necessary
work, thus lessening the expense by one teacher's salary.
We, therefore, your committee recommend as a more
equitable division and distribution of the moneys raised in the
t irst Educational District on Education Day, for educational
purposes, one-third of said moneys be appropriated for Payne
Theological Seminary and the remaining two-thirds be ap¬
propriated for Wilberforce University; providing however, that
each may use special means aside from Educational Day to
augment their funds.
—52—
II.
"In view of the close proximity of the State of Kentucky,
and the State School at Frankfort, and Lincoln at Sampsonville,
and the expenses involved in building and maintaining a school
such as we would wish at Harrodsburg, Ky., and the advantage
to the conference of -Kentucky, financial as well as educational,
"We, the Ohio Annual Conference in the Twenty-fifth Ses¬
sion assembled respectfully petition the General Conference of
the A. M. E. Church in session at Philadelphia, May, 1916, on
the grounds of economy and expediency to merge the school at
Harrodsburg, Ky., with Wilberforce University, and to include
the Kentucky Conference already a part of the Fourth Episcopal
District in the First Educational District."
Committee.
With the hope that these matters may receive careful,
thoughtful and prayerful consideration, that we may all work
together with an eye single only to the highest good to accrue
to School, to Church and to Race, and with thanks for all the
past aid of this great Church in my personal effort at upbuild¬
ing, I beg leave to submit this report.
Fraternally yours,
William Sanders Scarborough,
President of Wilberforce University.
REPORT OF THE SECRETARY OF WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY.
To the Twenty-fifth Session of the General Conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, now assembled at
Philadelphia, Pa., May 3rd, ]916, Greetings:
.Reverend Fathers and Brethren:—It affords me unbounded pleasure to present to you for your consideration, the
following' report of the receipts and expenditures of the University, for the Quadrennium up to April 1st, which was
prepared according to the Carnegie System, by Mr. Henry I'. Talbert, the former Assistant Secretary.
RECEIPTS:
1912-1913 1913-1914 1914-1915 1915-1916
Income from Students
Tuition Rent and Incidentals $4478.07 $6109.82 $7583.20 $7032.00
Late Registration Fees 116.79
Library Fees 418.50 420.50 504.00 401.00
Board 4619.25 1772.81
$ 9632.61 $ 8303.13 $ 8087.20 $ 7433.00
Income from Investments
Endowments for General Purposes .... 814.28 326.50 728.60 210.00
Income from Grants by State
Appropriation for Current Expenses ... 3500.00 3500.00 5350.00 3500.00
Income from A. M. E. Church
Educational Department 816.00 1220.00 1100.00 800.00
Financial Department 1280.00 400.00 160.00
Educational Day Collection 298.08 115.00 331.50
Bishop Derrick's Conferences 103.07
Bishop Turner's Conferences 106.10
Bishop Shaffer's Conferences 1899.64 3130.51 3861.21 3666.45
Bishop Jones' Conferences 205.45 175.00
Bishop Tyree's Conferences 2068.81 1749.11 1488.73 1284.50
Bishop Lee's Conferences 836.66 1167.51 1098.73 813.50
Bishop Shaffer's Con. Shorter Hall .... 275.15 654.00
Bishop Lee's Con. Shorter Hall 314.00
Trustee Dues 250.00
Totals
Gifts for Current Expenses
Donations 1100.00
Callanan Estate 500.00
Ind. Subscriptions Per B. F. Lee
Founders' Day Rally 342.93
Laboratory Fund
Totals
Income from Other Sources
Miscellaneous
Borrowed
Returned Tax
57.50
1000.00
Totals
Balances Brought Forward
7066.86
1942.93
342.05
455.00
1954.00
57.00
304.60
115.10
187.10
2389.69
85.50
1057.50
68.42
$24082.60
10219.28
2430.70
914.00
1970.00
4.00
225.51
404.27
4024.73
194.00
2662.29
872.40
1528314.30
20.00
9368.76
773.00
6744.45
2199.51
773.00
350.00
360.00*
182.00
4623.00
555.41
$30912.48
892.00
Totals
Balance April 1st, 1916, $617.25.
*Rent of Farm.
NOTE:—For Year 1915-1916 to April 20th, 1916:
Founders' Day Collections, Bishop Shaffer's Conferences $1583.20
Founders' Day Collections, Bishop Lee's Conferences 687.55
Founders' Day Collections, Other Donations 545.00
$19552.45
Total $2815.75
Bishop Shaffer's Collections included in the above amount, $3666.45; and Bishop Lee's, $813.50; and other Donations in
the amount, $773.00.
DISBURSEMENTS.
19121913
Departmental Expenses
Salaries of Professors $2798.50
Salaries of Instructors 2302.00
Laboratory Supplies
Materials
Stationery and Office Supplies
Printing Bulletins, Etc 320.85
Kepairs to Equipment
Freight and Drayage 28.59
Miscellaneous
Totals $5449.94
Administration and General Expense
Salaries of Officers 2291.00
Salaries of Assistants 770.00
Expenses of Officers 532.65
Advertising
Books, Printing and Supplies 507.93
Miscellaneous 214.99
General Office Expense 351.30
Trustees Expenses
Insurance
Totals 4667.87
1913-1914
$4167.00
2396.50
262.30
440.50
16.20
2900.00
1013.00
1008.77
406.26
394.22
335.36
1914-1915
$7612.00
1867.00
370.00
313.93
14.52
159.50
1081.02
22.19
20.00
$7282.50
1915-1916
$4005.00
873.00
10.00
4607.00
800.50
750.65
15.50
293.50
584.38
380.72
438.37
* 413.24
$11460.16
$5301.24
2062.32
566.00
275.10
152.16
614.33
141.75
50.00
6057.61
7870.62
3861.66
oo
Operation and Maintenance of Plant
Wages of Janitors 428.00
Laborers' Wages, D. H. Dept 378.46
Heat, Light and Power 1597.30
Undergraduate Labor 500.75
Repairs 182.43
Supplies, D. H. Dept 4316.79
Totals 7403.73
Miscellaneous Expenses
Payne Seminary 1248.59
Interest 1107.55
Notes Payable 2097.74
Accounts Payable 1234.78
Parsons, Kan., Prop
Key Refunds
Scholarships
Refunds
Totals 5688.66
Overdraft
395.50
281.10
1424.92
863.32
t2083.85
1634.36
1240.15
1140.82
4170.06
690.36
494.34
6683.05
712.00
90.30
2567.48
673.67
826.67
68.25
1366.22
5104.62
300.00
125.00
92.00
307.50
4938.37
340.00
541.20
1681.12
543.25
174.44
104.01
793.53
1417.81
2012.18
1005.75
8.00
455.00
44.00
3384.02
7735.73
7295.34
5736.27
652.01
Totals
Library. tShorter Hall.
$23210.20 $27758.89 $31564.49
$18935.20
WILBERFORCE
1. Current Assets.
Cash $ 617.25
Accounts Receiveable •• 4017.35
Deficit Current Assets 30924.92
Total $ 36459.52
Investment Assets.
investment Committee's Holding $ 5978.36
Mortgage Notes 3600.00
Real Estate other than Plant 700.00
Deficit of Investment Assets 20858.36
Total $ 31136.72
Educational, Plant, Lands, Buildings, Equipment.
Balance at beginning of year $125200.00
Addition during the year 666.70
Total Educational Plant $125866.70
Accounts Receiveable.
Students Accounts $ 337.35
Callanan Estate 2000.00
Walter Steward Memorial 1000.00
F. S. Delaney Estate 500.00
Leopold Green Estate 1000.00
Thomas H. Jackson 80.00
UNIVERSITY.
1. Current Liabilities.
Notes Payable $ 30471.98
Accounts Payable 5753.54
Key Deposit Fund 234.00
Total $ 36459.52
Endowment Capital Accounts.
Funds for General Purposes $ 31036.72
Funds for Designated Purposes 100.00
Total Endowment Funds $ 31136.72
Educational, Plant, Endowment and Capital.
Endowments Expended on Buildings $ 845.00
Surplus Income Expended on Lands, Build¬
ings and Equipment 125021.70
Total Educational Plant $125866.70
Mortgages and Notes Receiveable.
Bishop B. F. Lee $ 500.00
Bishop B. F. Lee 3000.00
Thos. H. Jackson 100.00
Total $3600.00
Total
$4917.35
C. N. & I. Department, Lands and Buildings
C. N. & I. Department, Equipment
Total
Payne Theological Seminary, Lands and Buildings
Payne Theological Seminary, Equipment
Total
Wilberforce University
C. N. & I. Department
Payne Theological Seminary
Total
$336900.00
71957.34
$408857.34
$ 12000.00
3000.00
$ 15000.00
$125866.70
408857.34
15000.00
$549724.04
WILBERFORCE UNIVERSITY.
Endowment Funds.
Endowments for General Purposes
Avery Fund
Monroe Fund
Snowden Fund
James A. & Mariah Shorter Fund
Wheeling Gant Fund
Estimated $5000.00
Realized 4122.69
Less Mortgage. . . 1900.00....
Henry Gordon Fund
A. I. Powers Fund
Stephen Daniels Fund
William Woodyear & Wife Fund
Randolph Fund
Total $31036.72
Endowments for Designated Purposes
Richard S. Rust Fund 100.00
Total $31136.72
Endowments Kxpendcd on Lands and Buildings
Quarto Centennial Fund 395.00
First Kducational District Fund 450.00
Total 845.00
Total Endowment Funds $31981.72
P. A. NICHOLS,
Secretary.
.$10000.00
. 4300.00
100.00
. 2000.00
2222.69
1569.22
2350.00
420.00
1670.00
6404.81