Lucien William Gatlin

The _Technician_ described Student Body President Bill Gatlin as a "top ranking student." Gatlin, a dormitory assistant and a member of the publications board, held many leadership positions on campus prior to his presidential election in May 1945. While serving as president, Gatlin wrote a weekly article for the Technician and managed the freshman canteen in the Quadrangle. Gatlin lobbied for many campus improvements including the addition of a physical education curriculum for athletes and increased teaching regulations. Bill Gatlin graduated from NC State in 1946 with degree in general engineering.

Images

Years at State

Student Body President, 1945-1946

Accomplishments

While serving as student body president, Bill Gatlin wrote a weekly article in the Technician entitled “Campus Centrifuge.” His column discussed several topics including campus events, Student Government issues, and national politics.

Gatlin unsuccessfully lobbied for senior privileges. Gatlin called for the administration to allow seniors with at least a B average the opportunity to decide whether to take final exams. The Faculty Council defeated the Student Council’s senior privileges proposal in February 1946.

Under Gatlin’s leadership, Student Government made plans to revive Dad’s Day, which was discontinued during World War II. Students and their fathers celebrated Dad’s Day on October 20, 1945. Events included tours of campus, the NC State-Wake football game, and lunch.

Citations

Technician (28 September 1945, 25 January 1946)