Frank Palmer Speare, the first President of Northeastern University, was a leading figure in the field of education. During his 43 years at Northeastern University, the institution developed from a small college to one of the nation's largest private universities. Frank Palmer Speare was born in Dorchester, Massachusetts on March 31, 1869. He graduated from Bridgewater State Teachers' College in 1889. From 1896 to 1916, he served as the Educational Director of the Evening Institute of the Boston YMCA. In 1916, the Institute was formally incorporated as Northeastern College, and Frank Palmer Speare was inaugurated as the college's first President in March 1917. He retired as President in 1940, and was appointed President Emeritus. Frank Palmer Speare was also a trustee, and member of the Northeastern Corporation. Frank Palmer Speare died May 29, 1954.
From the description of Frank Palmer Speare papers, 1878-1984 bulk 1911-1948. (Northeastern University). WorldCat record id: 49077152
