Lawrence Alpheus Kimpton (1910–73) was an American philosopher and academic administrator, best known as the 6th president of the University of Chicago (1951–60.) His leadership emphasized academic reform, financial stability, and urban renewal, shaping the university’s trajectory.
Born in Kansas City, Missouri, he earned a B.A. from Stanford University (1927) and a PhD in philosophy from Cornell University (1935.) He began teaching English, German, and philosophy at Deep Springs College before becoming Dean of the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Kansas City (1942.)
Kimpton joined the University of Chicago in 1943, initially working on the Metallurgical Project for atomic research. He later served as Dean of Students (1944–46,) Vice President and Dean of Faculties (1946–47,) and briefly as Dean of Students at Stanford University (1947–50.) In 1951, he succeeded Robert Maynard Hutchins as president, focusing on curriculum reform and infrastructure growth.
His tenure saw the suppression of the controversial “beat edition” of The Chicago Review (1958,) sparking debates on academic freedom. After leaving academia, he became a director at Standard Oil Company of Indiana.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Lawrence A. Kimpton
Much of truth is found upon the battlefield of controversy, and it is kept alive by sharp exchanges.
—Lawrence A. Kimpton
Topics: Difficulties
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