Nicholas Murray Butler: His Role at Columbia University

Barbara wanted to be a teacher. She liked working with children. She wanted to be well prepared. She would graduate in May with a bachelor's degree from Barnard College. She hoped to be accepted into Teachers College of Columbia University. She wanted to get a Ph.D. in elementary education. Barbara and her father visited the campus of Columbia University one fall afternoon.


"Barbara," her dad said, "If you are accepted to Columbia University like I was and your grandfather was, we'll all have Nicholas Murray Butler to thank."


"What about my good grades?" Barbara asked.


"Well, of course, your good grades are most important," Dad quipped back.


"And I thought Mom was always telling me the right financial aid was essential," Barbara added.


"Well, of course," Dad answered. "Boy, you won't even let your father take a walk down memory lane, will you?"


"Sorry, Dad," Barbara said. "This isn't going to be one of those I walked five miles in the snow uphill both ways to school every day stories, is it, Dad?"


"No," Dad retorted. "I just remember learning about Nicholas Murray Butler here. Without him, this school would not be what it is today. Can I share a little bit about him with you?"


"Yeah, sure," Barbara answered.


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