1950s: The Semi-Centennial

Lesley continued to thrive as an institution. In 1955, the first five students of the Graduate School received their degree. The Undergraduate School was accredited by the New England Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. Enrollment was back up to 380 in the Undergraduate School and 52 for the Graduate School.

The campus also continued to grow. At the start of the decade, Stebbins Hall was built, adding two floors above Alumni Hall, including a library. And by the end of the ‘50s, the newly built Trentwell Mason White Hall, a dormitory and dining room, opened.

Lesley College celebrated its semi-centennial with a week of events during May 5 through May 10, 1959 that included a May Day Celebration; several musical and dramatic productions; and an Alumnae Day.

The 1950s, however, were dampened by the loss of two esteemed Lesley leaders: Edith Lesley Wolfard died in 1953 and President Trentwell Mason White passed away unexpectedly in 1959.

Lesley College promotional material: "Prepared at Lesley College for her career of responsibility," ca. 1950s.

Plans for building of Trentwell Mason White Hall and Livingston Stebbins Hall, 1957.

Photos of Trentwell Mason White Hall construction, 1957.

Trentwell Mason White Hall statistics, Building Dedication Ceremony program, 1958.

Lesley College Schools for Children, Dearborn School pamphlet, 1950s.