President's Office, University of Maryland

From its founding in 1856 as the Maryland Agricultural College to the creation of the current system of thirteen campuses in 1988, numerous presidents oversaw the operation of the College Park campus. These men made policy and personnel decisions; directed building campaigns and the creation of new academic programs; raised funds; monitored student, faculty, and staff conduct and performance; lobbied the legislature; touted the university's academic and athletic accomplishments; and guided the campus to its place among major American research universities.

On March 6 1856, the Maryland General Assembly chartered the Maryland Agricultural College (MAC). The MAC Board of Trustees announced the appointment of the first President, Benjamin Hallowell, on October 5, 1859, the day of the college's formal dedication and opening. Hallowell served for only one month, resigning for reasons or ill health. In the early years, the President set the admission policies and curriculum, established moral guidelines, hired the faculty, administered the budget, lobbied for funds, and frequently taught classes.

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