Williams, Clanton W. (Clanton Ware), 1904-1975

Dr. Clanton Ware Williams (1904-1975) served as the fourth president of the University of Houston from 1956-1960. He received a BA in philosophy from Davidson College in 1927. He received both an MA in history from the University of Alabama in 1938 and a Ph.D. in history from Vanderbilt University in 1938. He joined the faculty of the University of Alabama in 1929 and was associated with that institution for twenty-five years. During World War II, Williams obtained the rank of colonel and served as Chief Army Air Forces historian. He was awarded the Commendation Ribbon and Legion of Merit for distinguished service. During the Korean War he served as a staff officer of the Air War College.

Williams joined the University of Houston as vice-president for academic affairs in January of 1955. He was named president of the University at the December 10, 1956 meeting of the Board of Regents. At this same meeting, A.D. Bruce was named chancellor and chief executive officer of the University. With this new reporting structure, the president was entrusted with the internal affairs of the University while the chancellor was charged with both external relationships and overall responsibility.

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