Dr. Robert E. Kennedy: A Tribute

"To Teach, To Lead, To Follow."

— Dr. Robert E. Kennedy, Learning How, 2006

In a career that spanned more than seven decades, Cal Poly President Emeritus Dr. Robert E. Kennedy spent significant time in many areas of education. He played key roles in the advancement and development of Cal Poly both as President, from 1967 to 1979, and in his numerous emeritus activities in the thirty years from 1980 to 2010.

President Kennedy's influence and role in shaping the campus library led naturally to naming the new Kennedy Library in his honor. Dr. Kennedy understood the many benefits of the library's role on campus. He and his wife Mary contributed to the philanthropic and intellectual success of the library. He described his admiration for libraries: "a great Library is essential to a higher education institution. The Library is like the kitchen in a home. It's the hub of the house; it's where you get fed."

President Kennedy will be remembered as an enthusiastic storyteller, a leader who stayed pragmatic, humble and dedicated to Cal Poly, and also as a mentor for thousands of students. During his presidency, the university evolved into a mature and respected institution in higher education in California and the West. The campus and library wish to recognize President Kennedy's life and achievements and to say thank you.

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"We believe it is not a question of either occupational or broad, cultural training. Education must include both. And it should be remembered that differences in emphasis and in ways and means used by different colleges give American education much of its strength."

— President Robert E. Kennedy

Photo courtesy of University Archives, Cal Poly