In 1887 President Bascom resigned. To him, succeeded Doctor Thomas Chrowder Chamberlin, of the United States Geological Survey, and now head professor of Geology in the Chicago University. Further broadening of the scope of the University, more original research, more post-graduate work, the method and life of a University and not those of a college--these fairly indicate the aims of the new executive. Doctor Chamberlin was not expected to give instruction in the class rooms, but was to devote himself entirely to executive duties. He held the presidency for five years. No more important service has been rendered to the University than that of President Chamberlin. The time had come for the College to put on the real dignity of a University. How wisely the plans for adjustment and development were worked out, the growth of the University itself bears witness.

Charles Kendall Adams succeeded President Chamberlin in 1892. His life and services are to receive a separate treatment in this book: otherwise, his services to the University, his great scholarship, his broad experience and wisdom as an educator, his lovable qualities as a man, his tender regard for the University and all its interests, for Madison and her people would lead us to make some fitting tribute to his memory here.