After the Kent State Shootings: Bowling Green State University's Reaction

70_05_04_Mitchell

Kent State Shootings at Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green State University 70_05_04_Mitchell

TEI Letters

2017 Mathew Sweet Created the initial version of the article
2017 Mathew Sweet Converted to TEI
William V. Mitchell Ohio May 4, 1970 William T. Jerome
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218 Fifth Avenue
Hubbard, Ohio 44425

May 4, 1970

Dr. William Jerome
President, Bowling Green State University
Bowling Green, Ohio

Dear Dr. Jerome:

In view of the tragedy at Kent State University, I feel that
it is imperative that the administration of Bowling GreenBowling Green State University
must take all steps possible to see that this does not
happen at Bowling GreenBowling Green State University. There is no reason for you to
give in to the demands of a handful of radical, revolutionary
students. Too much of the trouble on our campuses today has
come about because college presidents, particulary those of
some of the prestige colleges in the East, have seen fit to
grant even the most idiotic demands of their far left-wing
students.

In order to prevent this from happening at Bowling GreenBowling Green State University, you
must be prepared to react with the necessary amount of firmness
and/or force in the event of any trouble. A small number of
trouble makers must not be allowed to destroy buildings or
cause the deaths of students. If this means calling in the
state police or the national guard, then this should be done
at the earliest moment.

Your responsibility is to the taxpayers of Ohio and the great
majority of students who want an education. You owe nothing
to those students who want to shut down or destroy the campus
in order to further their own selfish aims. Please be firm.

Sincerely yours,

William V. Mitchell
B.A.Bachelor of Arts '55
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May 29, 1970

Mr. William V. Mitchell
318 Fifth Avenue
Hubbard, Ohio 44425


Dear Mr. Mitchell:

Thank you for your letter of May 4. Obviously, the tragedy of the
past several weeks has elicited varied responses from interested parents
and alumni. Therefore, I hope the enclosed information, which was sent
to the parents of all students at Bowling GreenBowling Green State University, will answer the many
questions you have raised regarding the events of these troubled days and
also will help us to regain your confidence.

I do appreciate your letter and your interest, however, and want
to assure you we share your desire to maintain a peaceful and educational
atmosphere on the Bowling GreenBowling Green State University campus.

Cordially,

Wm. Travers Jerome III President

WTJ:da
Enclosures