Eleven
The Wade Level
Indiana State University has recognized one of its longest serving presidents by naming the Center for Performing and Fine Arts in honor of Richard Landini.
The ISU Board of Trustees approved the name change today. Landini, Indiana State's eighth president, served from 1975 to 1992 - the third longest tenure in the university's more than 140-year history.
Remembered for his booming baritone and as a vocal and energetic supporter of the university, Landini's legacy is still evident throughout the Indiana State campus, said current ISU President Dan Bradley.
"During his tenure, the general education curriculum was enhanced, admissions standards were raised and redefined, and several national honor societies were chartered. More than 20 new undergraduate and as many graduate programs were created, including a master's in public administration, a master's in nursing and a doctorate in psychology," Bradley said. "A $55 million master plan was also developed, resulting in the construction of numerous campus facilities and the transformation of an urban campus into a beautifully-landscaped, pedestrian friendly environment."
Landini also created Donaghy Day, a campus-wide clean-up and beautification day, and Sycamore athletic teams achieved significant success during his presidency, Bradley noted. The 1979 men's basketball team, led by Larry Bird, was runner-up in the NCAA Division I Basketball Tournament and the men's gymnastics team, led by Kurt Thomas, won the NCAA National Championship.
"Dr. Landini retired as president in 1992 but continued teaching until his death in 2004," Bradley said. "It is fitting and proper that the university recognize him via the Richard G. Landini Center for Performing and Fine Arts, a landmark building that exists today because of the campus master plan he championed."
Mike Alley, Board President stated, "Dr. Landini's impact on ISU has been dramatic and his vision continues to be felt today. It is appropriate to commemorate Dr. Landini's legacy in this fashion, as one of our longest serving presidents."
The ISU Board of Trustees approved the name change today. Landini, Indiana State's eighth president, served from 1975 to 1992 - the third longest tenure in the university's more than 140-year history.
Remembered for his booming baritone and as a vocal and energetic supporter of the university, Landini's legacy is still evident throughout the Indiana State campus, said current ISU President Dan Bradley.
"During his tenure, the general education curriculum was enhanced, admissions standards were raised and redefined, and several national honor societies were chartered. More than 20 new undergraduate and as many graduate programs were created, including a master's in public administration, a master's in nursing and a doctorate in psychology," Bradley said. "A $55 million master plan was also developed, resulting in the construction of numerous campus facilities and the transformation of an urban campus into a beautifully-landscaped, pedestrian friendly environment."
Landini also created Donaghy Day, a campus-wide clean-up and beautification day, and Sycamore athletic teams achieved significant success during his presidency, Bradley noted. The 1979 men's basketball team, led by Larry Bird, was runner-up in the NCAA Division I Basketball Tournament and the men's gymnastics team, led by Kurt Thomas, won the NCAA National Championship.
"Dr. Landini retired as president in 1992 but continued teaching until his death in 2004," Bradley said. "It is fitting and proper that the university recognize him via the Richard G. Landini Center for Performing and Fine Arts, a landmark building that exists today because of the campus master plan he championed."
Mike Alley, Board President stated, "Dr. Landini's impact on ISU has been dramatic and his vision continues to be felt today. It is appropriate to commemorate Dr. Landini's legacy in this fashion, as one of our longest serving presidents."
