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| Leonard T. Skeggs, Sr. |
In recognition of the vital role played by the late Leonard T. Skeggs, Sr. in the formation of Youngstown State University, a lecture series was established in 1966 in his memory by the Skeggs Foundation.
The late Mr. Skeggs first came to Youngstown in 1919 as Educational Secretary of the YMCA. In 1924, he became General Secretary, a position held until his death in 1933.
Leonard Skeggs believed that Youngstown should have its own college where its young men and women could further their education regardless of race, color, creed or financial condition. Skeggs not only lived to see his dream realized, but also witnessed many changes in the university during his lifetime.
It was Skeggs who prompted Dr. Howard W. Jones to become the first president of the University. He was also instrumental in raising funds for the fledgling school. Through his initial leadership, Youngstown State University has grown to become the large urban university it is today.
The Skeggs Lectures bring to the University outstanding speakers who are authorities in their respective fields. Lecturers are chosen from any of the arts or sciences on the basis of their education and ability to inspire young people.
The lectures provide a fitting tribute to a man who acted on a dream. Leonard T. Skeggs, Sr. brought to Youngstown the opportunity for higher education and helped to build a modern university serving the needs of the region.
