relations The Archer Era
The University appointed Lawrence “Larry” Archer, BSCE ’47, ACIT ’82, H of F ’88, just 28 years old, as dean of the College of Engineering in 1952. He became the youngest dean of engineering in the country. He would serve in this position for an impressive 34 years, becoming a beloved and towering figure in the college’s history. During World War II, Archer participated in more than 30 combat missions into enemy territory in the Aleutian Islands. Seriously injured in a crash, he spent months in the hospital before being honorably discharged and enrolling at Northern. Archer taught engineering classes while still a student. He became dean only five years after earning his civil engineering degree.
1952 The College of Engineering moved into a “temporary” home that turned into a long-term arrangement. ONU purchased an old public school building on North Main Street from the Ada Board of Education for $18,500. The University then completed a top-to-bottom renovation to prepare the building for engineering studies. Engineering alumni generously responded to a plea to help equip the new laboratories. University officials lauded the move to the new location as a giant step forward.
1952
ENGINEERING TIMELINE WORLD INVENTIONS Hydrogen bomb (1952) pg.
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Archer showed a deep concern for students. He always put their needs first. He personally reviewed each and every application for admission and graduation. He knew the names of almost all the students who passed through the college’s doors during his tenure.
1954 Academic excellence The College of Engineering received full accreditation from the Engineers’ Council for Professional Development on its first try. The University, as a whole, had not yet earned regional accreditation, so the college’s achievement was considered remarkable.
A strong and no-nonsense leader, Archer set high standards and expected them to be met. He transformed the College of Engineering into a respected, fully accredited institution. A devoted family man, Archer also dutifully served his church, community and the Boys Scouts of America. He retired in 1985 to return to teaching. Having dedicated his entire professional career to ONU, Archer died in May 1987.
1954 Successful artificial earth satellite (1957) Fiber optics (1955)
Integrated circuit (1958) Laser (1958)
Ultrasound (1959)