William Samuel Carlson (1905–94) was an American academic administrator, polar explorer, and educator, known for his leadership in higher education and Arctic research. He served as president of four universities, shaping academic policies and institutional growth.
Born in Ironwood, Michigan, he earned a B.A. (1930,) M.S. (1932,) and PhD (1938) from the University of Michigan. His early career focused on polar exploration, participating in the University of Michigan Greenland Expedition (1928–29) and leading the fourth expedition (1930–31,) contributing to Arctic studies and military reconnaissance.
During World War II, Carlson served in the U.S. Army Air Forces, overseeing air base construction in Canada, Greenland, and Iceland. After the war, he transitioned to academic leadership, serving as president of the University of Delaware (1946–50,) the University of Vermont (1950–52,) the State University of New York (1952–58,) and the University of Toledo (1958–72.)
His publications include Greenland Lies North (1940,) detailing his Arctic explorations; Reports of the Greenland Expeditions of the University of Michigan (1941,) documenting scientific findings; and Lifelines Through the Arctic (1962,) examining polar transportation routes. He also wrote The Municipal University (1962,) discussing higher education administration.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by William S. Carlson
Only through dedicated work does a man fulfill himself.
—William S. Carlson
Topics: Dedication
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