Wallace Howe Lee was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1861. In 1886 he earned a bachelor's degree from Williams College. After graduating, he was hired by Albany College to teach ancient languages and music. Lee became an integral part of the Albany community, and in 1895 he was hired as president of the College. In 1905 Lee took a job as assistant pastor and educational director of Seattle's First Presbyterian Church, and as Dean of Whitworth College in Tacoma. In 1911 he returned to Albany as an instructor, and from 1915 to 1920 he was acting President. Lee continued to teach and act as Dean of the College and registrar until his death. Lee died of heart attack in 1936. As President, Lee was instrumental in keeping the College going through extremely difficult financial situations.
From the guide to the Administrative Records of Albany College (Oregon) President, Wallace Howe Lee, 1895-1920, (Lewis & Clark College Special Collections and Archives)
