Draft:John Grant Crabbe

John Grant Crabbe

Introduction:

John Grant Crabbe was known for many achievements within his life. Crabbe worked for Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) for many years. Crabbe made many changes to the university, which is why EKU decided to name the library, John Crabbe Library, in his honor.

Early Life:

John Crabbe was born on November 29, 1865, in Mount Sterling, Ohio. Crabbe proceeded to further his education in the early stages of his life. Crabbe received his A.B. degree from Ohio Wesleyan University in 1889. Within the same year, he married Jennie Florence Garff. Later, in 1892, he also received his M.A. from Ohio Wesleyan University. These were the busiest times in Crabbe’s life. Crabbe wanted to learn more and was always known for furthering his education throughout his life and work. Crabbe dedicated his life to furthering other people’s education.

Crabbe was involved in many organizations during his time at EKU, as he was involved in Greek life on campus, as he was in the fraternity Phi Beta Kappa. During his presidency, Crabbe wanted students to be more involved on campus, as he was. He then decided to further his education more, by receiving his Ped. M. degree from Ohio University in 1897. Therefore, John Crabbe was very in touch with his education and was constantly keeping himself busy. Because of his dedication, Crabbe eventually received two honorary doctorate degrees from Berea College and Miami University in 1909. However, it did not stop here. In 1911, he received an honorary doctorate from the State University of Kentucky at Lexington. He then received another honorary doctorate in 1918, from Ohio Wesleyan University, which is where his education started.

Eastern Kentucky University:

Crabbe’s hard work throughout his education paid off, for he eventually became president of Eastern Kentucky University (Eastern Kentucky State School at the time). Crabbe was president from April 9, 1910, to September 1, 1916. As president, Crabbe enforced more rights for teachers and professors. By this, the faculty members were doubled, as well as the annual budget. Not only this, but the student body was dramatically increased during his presidency. Crabbe shifted the changes in student government and life on campus while he was in office.

Crabbe was recognized for his dedication and hard work during his presidency, considering that the library at Eastern Kentucky University, John Crabbe Library, was, of course, named after John Crabbe. Today, the library still stands in Crabbe’s name, and has become one of the most popular places to study on campus. Crabbe’s name is still a major topic on campus, and Crabbe has become one of the most well-known EKU presidents. Therefore, his presidency and work still impacts EKU students.

However, his career didn’t stop there. After leaving EKU, Crabbe received his presidency of Colorado State Teachers College in Greeley, Colorado. He began his presidency in 1916, shortly after leaving EKU.

Later Years:

While still living in Colorado (Weld County), John Grant Crabbe died on February 13, 1964. Crabbe accomplished many great things in his life and continued to work in other universities after Eastern Kentucky University. Crabbe’s work and legacy will always be remembered and acknowledged.