Ramsay, William (1876-1965)

William Ramsay.

University of Regina Archives and Special Collections 80-2-93

William Ramsay, born in Ontario in 1876, graduated from Queen's University, Kingston in 1902 with a BA and took graduate courses at the University of Chicago, where he completed his PhD in 1927. Ramsay taught at various public schools in Ontario before joining the staff of Regina's Central Collegiate in 1910. Six years later he joined the faculty of the University of Saskatchewan as a professor of Classics. He was dean of Regina College from 1934 to 1940. A gifted educator and able administrator, Ramsay served as dean at a difficult period in the College's history: in 1934 Regina College was absorbed by the University of Saskatchewan and faced an uncertain future, as the economic depression had reduced enrolment and resulted in persistent financial shortfalls. Ramsay's guidance, however, ensured the survival of the college and its eventual growth into the University of Regina. Retiring in 1940, Ramsay received an honorary doctor of laws degree in 1961. He died in Saskatchewan in 1965.

Mark Vajcner

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