Lone Star has a proud and enduring history, leaving a lasting impact on The University of Akron’s campus. Our esteemed alumni have made such significant contributions that several campus buildings bear their names—a testament to their leadership, generosity, and the strength of our brotherhood.
Below are just a few of the Lone Star alumni who have been honored in this way:
Bulger
Dr. Charles E. Bulger was a distinguished figure at the University of Akron, contributing significantly in various academic and administrative roles. An alumnus of Buchtel College (now the University of Akron), he graduated in 1908.
Academic and Administrative Roles:
- Professor of German: Dr. Bulger served as a Professor of German at Buchtel College, sharing his expertise in the German language and literature.
- Faculty Manager of Athletics: In a role akin to today’s Athletic Director, he was instrumental in organizing and promoting athletic programs. Notably, he facilitated the
university’s admission into the Ohio Conference, enhancing its athletic standing. - Dean of the College of Liberal Arts: Dr. Bulger held the position of Dean for Buchtel College of Liberal Arts from 1938 to 1948, succeeding Professor Albert I. Spanton.
- Dean of Graduate Work: From 1933 to 1950, he served as the first Dean of Graduate Work, overseeing the development and administration of graduate programs.
Honors and Legacy:
- Alumni Honor Award: In recognition of his dedication and contributions, Dr. Bulger received the University of Akron’s Alumni Honor Awards.
- Athletic Hall of Fame: His efforts in advancing the university’s athletic programs earned him a place in the University’s Athletic Hall of Fame.
- Bulger Residence Hall: In honor of his lasting impact, Bulger Residence Hall was dedicated on the University of Akron campus in 1969.
Jackson
Lee R. Jackson was a prominent figure in Akron, Ohio, known for his significant contributions to both the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company and the University of Akron.
- Professional Career:
Firestone Tire and Rubber Company: Jackson began his career with Firestone in 1912, starting in the sales department. Over the years, he ascended through various positions.
o 1913: Salesman in Detroit.
o 1916-1918: District Manager in Grand Rapids, Michigan.prabook.com
o 1919: District Manager in Indianapolis.
o 1920: Division Manager for the Pacific Coast.prabook.com
o 1921: Division Manager for the Northwest.
o 1922: In charge of manufacturer’s sales in Detroit.prabook.com
o 1926: Manager of manufacturer’s sales in Akron.prabook.com
o 1927: General Sales Manager
o 1929-1941: Vice President Executive Vice President.prabook.com+1historicimages.com+1
o 1948-1957: Executive Vice President
o From 1957: Vice Chairman of the Board
Jackson retired from active leadership at Firestone in 1961 after 49 years of service but remained a director.
Contributions to the University of Akron:
Board Chairman: Jackson served as the chairman of the University of Akron’s Board of Directors from 1944 to 1955. Lee R. Jackson Field/Athletic Complex: In recognition of his contributions, the university named the Lee R. Jackson Field, now part of the FirstEnergy Stadium–Cub Cadet Field complex, in his honor. This facility serves as the home field for the university’s soccer teams.
McDowell
C. Blake McDowell was a prominent figure in Akron, Ohio, known for his significant contributions to the legal community and the University of Akron.
Professional Achievements:
Founding Partner of Brouse McDowell: In 1918, McDowell co-founded the Akron-based law firm Brouse McDowell, which has grown into a leading legal practice in the
Partner of Knight Newspapers: Beyond his legal practice, McDowell was a partner in Knight Newspapers, a media company that evolved into Knight Ridder, one of the largest newspaper publishers in the United States.
Legacy at the University of Akron:
C. Blake McDowell Law Center: The University of Akron’s School of Law building is named the C. Blake McDowell Law Center in his honor, recognizing his enduring support and contributions to the institution.
Endowed Fund: Established in 1998 through his estate, the Beatrice and C. Blake McDowell Jr. Endowed Fund supports distinguished professorships and academic scholarships at the School of Law, aiming to recruit and retain top students and faculty.
Simmons
Hezzleton Erastus Simmons (1885–1954) was a distinguished educator and administrator, serving as President of the University of Akron from 1933 to 1951. Affectionately known as “Prez Hez” by students, he implemented higher admissions standards to manage enrollment due to space constraints. He successfully secured funding from federal work-relief agencies, leading to the construction of key campus facilities, including Simmons Hall and the first student center.
Simmons Hall, a central hub on campus, is named in his honor. This three-story, 94,000-square-foot building provides essential services such as class registration, employment assistance, financial management, and academic advisement for students.
For photographs and additional materials related to Hezzleton E. Simmons, the University of Akron’s Archival Services houses records from his presidency. These unprocessed records may offer further insights into his tenure and contributions.
Simmons leadership significantly shaped the University of Akron’s development during his presidency, leaving a lasting legacy commemorated through Simmons Hall.
Schrank
Harry P. Schrank was a notable figure in Akron, Ohio, recognized for his leadership in the rubber industry and his contributions to the University of Akron.
Professional Career:
Seiberling Rubber Company: Schrank served as President and CEO of the Seiberling Rubber Company. Under his leadership, the company became a division of Firestone. He continued as president of the Seiberling division of Firestone until his retirement in 1967,
during which time the plant underwent modernization.
University of Akron Involvement:
Board of Directors: Schrank served as Chairman of the University of Akron’s Board of Directors, playing a significant role in the institution’s governance.
Schrank Hall: In recognition of his contributions, Schrank Hall on the University of Akron campus bears his name.