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Sherman Smith papers

 Collection
Identifier: UNMA-091

Scope and Content Note

The collection contains correspondence, papers, speeches and publications of Sherman Smith. Included are reports by Smith on the Physics and Chemistry Departments. The collection also includes photographs.

Dates

  • 1932-1973

Creator

Language of Materials

English

Access Restrictions

The collection is open for research.

Copy Restrictions

Limited duplication of print and photographic material is allowed for research purposes. User is responsible for compliance with all copyright, privacy, and libel laws. Permission is required for publication or distribution.

Biographical Note

Sherman E. Smith was born on April 10, 1909, in Custer, South Dakota. He earned his BS in chemical engineering from the South Dakota School of Mines in 1931 and his PhD in Chemistry from The Ohio State University in 1935. Prior to coming to UNM, he worked for Dupont as a research assistant and taught at the University of North Carolina. In 1945, he took over the position of UNM Chemistry Department chair from John Clark. He was appointed director of student affairs in 1949 and served as administrative vice president from 1965 until his death. Smith’s tenure as vice president under UNM Presidents Tom Popejoy and Ferrel Heady occurred at a time when the UNM student body was experiencing tremendous growth, necessitating similar growth in the physical plant. Vice President Smith played an essential role in shaping the campus as we know it today, overseeing the planning and development of its buildings and landscaping while representing the University and its fiscal needs before the Board of Educational Finance and New Mexico State Legislature. One of his greatest contributions was the planning and development of the physical campus, both architectural and horticultural. Smith was described as "a Renaissance man with many interests and skills to match." He wrote chemistry textbooks, worked with the Albuquerque Child Guidance Center and performed with local musical groups. Smith died in 1973 and Smith Plaza on the UNM campus was dedicated to his memory by the UNM Regents for his untiring efforts to beautify the campus

Extent

1 Cubic Foot (1 Box)

Abstract

Collection contains correspondence, papers, speeches and publications of Sherman Smith. Included are reports by Smith on the Physics and Chemistry Depts. The collection also includes photographs.
Title
Finding Aid of the Sherman Smith papers, 1932-1973
Status
Completed
Author
UNM Archives Staff
Date
© 2012
Description rules
Describing Archives: A Content Standard
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin
Language of description note
Finding aid is in English

Repository Details

Part of the UNM Center for Southwest Research & Special Collections Repository

Contact:
University of New Mexico Center for Southwest Research & Special Collections
University Libraries, MSC05 3020
1 University of New Mexico
Albuquerque NM 87131
505-277-6451