David Spaulding, grandson of
UT’s founder and first president Frederic Spaulding, exited a Ford Model A
Roadster to climb Plant Hall’s steps and re-enact the pivotal moment the
majestic building became The University of Tampa. His quiet portrayal during
UT’s 75th Anniversary opening ceremony, amid music, dancing and dignitaries,
allowed hundreds in attendance on Oct. 5 to reflect on the institution’s humble
roots.
“I tried to put myself in his place and imagine him walking up to this
building,” said Spaulding, 39, a resident of Princeville, Hawaii. “I considered
the time in history with the resources that he had available and didn’t have
available. It would have been an awesome moment to think of the possibilities
and also the challenges. I think the students can feel that when they come here,
and I think that’s part of the strength that the school has.”
Anchoring
the event, Dr. Robert Kerstein, professor of government and world affairs, and
Dr. Terry Parssinen, professor of history, spoke of Tampa’s history and the
political and financial obstacles that UT overcame to become a prominent
university.
“Those who organized the University were public-spirited in
their efforts, which makes their work quite remarkable in the Tampa of the early
1930s,” said Parssinen to the crowd gathered on Plant Hall’s East Verandah. He
noted that by 1935 President Spaulding had incurred significant personal debt in
order for UT to persevere.
Kerstein and Parssinen continued with details
of the ups and downs of the past 75 years, up to UT’s second “golden age” marked
by the current 11-year presidency of Dr. Ronald Vaughn, who has presided over a
tremendous growth in capital, campus buildings, programs and
students.
The historical celebration was enlivened by student
performances and tributes to UT alumni such as Bob Martinez ’57, former governor
of Florida, former mayor of Tampa and UT trustee emeritus, and Freddie Solomon
’75, UT football star and former Super Bowl champion. UT’s cheerleading squad
and championship baseball team also were featured.
During Tampa Mayor Pam
Iorio’s official proclamation of the day, she spoke of how the destinies of The
University of Tampa and the city of Tampa were closely intertwined.
“The
University of Tampa for 75 years has been a key part of Tampa’s growth and
development,” said Iorio. “It is truly Tampa’s jewel.”
President Ronald
Vaughn closed the event by asking listeners to learn of UT’s history while also
considering its greater possibilities.
“I am excited about what we’ll
become, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to change lives,” said Vaughn.
“Remember that you, too, are a part of the legacy of UT, a remarkable, evolving
work in progress.”