John Christopher Stevens: A study of his presidential administration at Abilene Christian University, Abilene, Texas, 1969-1981
University of North Texas, Ponder, TX, PhD Thesis, (1994)Abstract
The purpose of this study is to examine historically the presidential administration of John Christopher Stevens at Abilene Christian University from 1969 to 1981. During this time the institution grew in enrollment, faculty, facilities, endowment, and quality of educational opportunity. Limited to selected experiences and accomplishments, this dissertation examines Stevens' personal and administrative characteristics through interviews with him and those who worked with him. Materials were also used from Stevens' Presidential Archives in the Callie Faye Milliken Special Collections of the Herman and Margaret Brown Library at Abilene Christian University. Chapter One is an introduction. Chapter Two covers Stevens' early life and education. In 1934, Stevens began his higher education as a sixteen year old freshman at Abilene Christian College. After graduating in 1938, Stevens entered the ministry and preached for five years before becoming a chaplain, serving in Europe during World War Two. Following the war, Stevens continued his higher education and earned a master's degree in history. He joined the faculty of Abilene Christian College, in 1948, to teach history. Chapter Three covers Stevens' early teaching and administrative responsibilities. His appointment in 1956 as Assistant President was followed fifteen years later with Stevens' appointment as the eighth president of the College. Chapter Four covers Stevens' establishment as the President and his development of the Board, Staff, and Faculty. Chapter Five covers the directive and operational activities of the College. Chapter Six covers Stevens' administrative activities and accomplishments that benefitted Abilene Christian College and students in private and public colleges in Texas and the nation. Chapter Seven covers an administrative evaluation survey sent to Board Members, Administrators, Faculty, and Professional Staff who worked with Stevens. Chapter Eight covers conclusions and recommendations.