Leading the Crimson and Gray: The Presidents of Washington State University

Leading the Crimson and Gray chronicles the lives and legacies of those who served in one of WSU's most visible roles--president. Challenges included battles over the Pullman location and curriculum, student protests, and severe economic depression and recession. Yet their accomplishments were substantial. Early presidents launched the college, expanded the academic program, and made progress toward university status. More recent leaders championed athletic achievement, strengthened enrollment, increased research grants and contracts, completed major construction projects, won state legislative backing for a new medical school, and more. Combined, George W. Lilley, John W. Heston, Enoch A. Bryan, Ernest O. Holland, Wilson M. Compton, C. Clement French, W. Glenn Terrell, Samuel H. Smith, V. Lane Rawlins, and Elson S. Floyd left a legacy that makes the Cougar Nation proud.