Dickson, Harold E., 1900-

Harold E. Dickson's teaching career at Penn State spanned 41 years, starting in 1923 as an instructor in watercolor. In 1927, he was appointed an assistant professor in fine arts, becoming a full professor in 1946. In 1956, he was named professor of history of art and architecture, and retired as professor emeritus in 1964. In 1974, he was the recipient of the Lions Paw Medal for his efforts in popularizing the work of Pennsylvania artists. Instrumental in bringing major works of art to Penn State, he worked closely with graduating students and alumni groups to obtain the Henry Varnum Poor land grant frescoes in Old Main and Heinz Warneke's Nittany Lion statue. He was the author of numerous articles in art journals and spent much time promoting university and community recognition of the Poor land grant frescoes. He was founder of the Penn State Outing Club and championed the preservation of "Hort Woods." He died on 17 July 1987 at the age of 87.