A Resolution in Memory of Professor Willard B. Gatewood
WHEREAS, Distinguished Professor of History and Chancellor Emeritus Willard B. Gatewood, Jr.,
80, of Fayetteville, Arkansas, died October 23, 2011; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gatewood received his B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. in History from Duke University;
and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gatewood joined the University of Arkansas faculty in 1970 and taught at the
University until 1998. After his “retirement,” he continued tirelessly to serve his former students
and colleagues in the field of American history, 1877-1941; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gatewood served as Chancellor from 1984-1985; and
WHEREAS, in 1994, Dr. Gatewood was selected to receive the Chancellor’s Medal for
Distinguished Achievement; and
WHEREAS, in 1986, Dr. Gatewood was elected to serve as President of the Southern Historical
Association; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gatewood’s delight in African American history and the history of the
American South was infectious. Students intrigued by the Progressive Era and the history of
race relations in the South lined up to take Dr. Gatewood’s courses; and
WHEREAS, Dr. Gatewood was an exceptional History professor, mentor, and advisor, who
trained 23 Ph.D. students who went on to illustrious careers as scholars of American history;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF TRUSTEES OF THE
UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS THAT the Board expresses its gratitude for Dr. Gatewood’s
extensive contributions and exceptional service to the University and extends its deepest
condolences to his family.
FURTHERMORE, the Board of Trustees directs that this resolution be spread upon the minutes
of this meeting and that a copy be provided to his wife, Mrs. Mary Lu Brown Gatewood, of
Fayetteville, Arkansas, and his son, Willard Gatewood III, and his daughter,
Mrs. Jonathan Stroud.