In March 1936, Rollins College in Winter Park, Florida, experienced a day of remarkable significance as it welcomed President Franklin D. Roosevelt and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. This event was not only a testament to the Roosevelts’ influence on American society but also a celebration of their enduring contributions to public service, education, and social justice. Rollins College held this historic event to recognize the profound impact of the Roosevelts’ leadership during a tumultuous period in American history. The college sought to honor President Roosevelt’s efforts in implementing the New Deal, which aimed to revitalize the economy and provide relief to millions. Additionally, Eleanor Roosevelt’s advocacy for human rights and social justice made her a deserving recipient of the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award. The Roosevelts agreed to participate and travel to Florida, recognizing the importance of engaging with educational institutions and the public to promote their ideals of service and leadership.

Honoring President Franklin D. Roosevelt

During his visit to Rollins College, President Franklin D. Roosevelt was conferred with an honorary Doctor of Literature degree. The ceremony took place at the Knowles Memorial Chapel and was a recognition of his literary and political achievements, particularly his leadership during the Great Depression. The honorary degree highlighted Roosevelt’s implementation of the New Deal, a series of programs designed to revitalize the American economy and provide relief to millions of citizens.

President Roosevelt’s address to the Rollins College community was both inspiring and memorable. He emphasized the importance of education and civic responsibility, urging the youth to actively participate in shaping the future. His presence on campus attracted national media attention and reinforced his commitment to education and public service. In his speech, Roosevelt humorously noted that the degree fulfilled his “lifelong ambition” of having his literary qualifications recognized, a comment that resonated well with the audience and showcased his wit.

“I am honored in becoming an alumnus of Rollins College, not alone because of my deep interest in the work that is carried on here, but also because of the longtime personal friendship between your president and myself, Roosevelt said. “It is because of the varied culture, the tireless industry and independent thinking of Doctor Holt that his friends were not at all surprised when he substituted new ideas in education for old practices. These changes fearlessly inaugurated at Rollins are bearing fruit…Stagnation follows standing still. Continued growth is the only evidence of life.”

Eleanor Roosevelt’s Sullivan Award

First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt was also honored during this significant visit, receiving the Algernon Sydney Sullivan Award from Rollins College. This prestigious award is presented to individuals who demonstrate remarkable character, integrity, and service to humanity. Eleanor Roosevelt’s dedication to human rights, social justice, and her tireless efforts to improve the lives of marginalized populations made her a fitting recipient of this honor.

Rollins College president, Hamilton Holt presented the award declaring, “Anna Eleanor Roosevelt, this medallion is not given to you merely because of your high leadership in the civic and social life of every community in which you have served, nor because of the impress of your zestful and very human personality upon the American people, far reaching and praiseworthy as that has been. It is given rather because you have ever made your home the radiating center of youth, laughter, affection and good breeding, and yet at the same time because you have steadfastly followed the self-same path of public service as wife of the President of the Republic that you did before you shared with your husband the highest office in the gift of the American People.”

The Ceremonial Procession and Public Reception

The day’s events extended beyond the awards ceremonies, featuring a grand motorcade through Winter Park and Orlando. The streets were lined with enthusiastic crowds, estimated at nearly 100,000 people, all eager to catch a glimpse of the President and the First Lady. This public reception was a clear demonstration of the Roosevelts’ immense popularity and the public’s admiration for their leadership.

In Orlando, President Roosevelt addressed the public, expressing his gratitude for the warm reception and the honor bestowed upon him by Rollins College. Meanwhile, Eleanor Roosevelt continued her journey to Jacksonville for another speaking engagement, highlighting her unwavering commitment to her causes and her relentless schedule of public service.

A Day of Celebration and Unity

The visit of the Roosevelts to Rollins College was more than a ceremonial event; it was a celebration of the spirit of public service and leadership. The honors conferred upon Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt were not just acknowledgments of their personal achievements but also reflections of their significant impact on American society.

This memorable event left a lasting impression on the community and reinforced Rollins College’s dedication to celebrating individuals who embody the values of service, leadership, and social justice. The recognition of the Roosevelts remains a proud moment in the college’s history, highlighting its commitment to honoring those who strive to make a difference in the world.

For further details on this historic visit, please refer to the North Brevard History website and the Rollins College Archives​ (NBBDirectory)​​ (Rollins Blogs)​.

References

  • Rollins College Archives. (n.d.). Retrieved from Rollins Blogs
  • North Brevard History. (n.d.). Retrieved from NBBDirectory
  • The Orlando Morning Sentinel. (1936, March 24). High laudation for President and First Lady spoken by college presidents at convocation. The Orlando Morning Sentinel, p. 2. Orlando, FL.

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