In this absorbing autobiography, Herman B Wells, the legendary former president of Indiana University, recalls his small-town boyhood, the strong influence of his parents, his pioneering work with Indiana banks during the Great Depression, and his connection with IU, which began as a student when the still provincial school had fewer than 3,000 students. At the end of his 25-year tenure as president, IU was a university with an international reputation and a student body that would soon exceed 30,000. Both lighthearted and serious, Wells's reflections describe in welcome detail how he approached the job, his observations on administration, his thoughts on academic freedom and tenure, his approach to student and alumni relations, and his views on the role of the university as a cultural center. Being Lucky is a nourishing brew of the memories, advice, wit, and wisdom of a remarkable man.
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About Herman B. Wells
Reviews for Being Lucky
Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette
Much more than the title might suggest [this is] a heart-warming account of a young boy and his parents determined that a son should have a college education, a classic and detailed account of his widening involvement with every aspect of higher education, and a stirring story of a wise administrator. [Wells's] life is an astonishing success story. . . . He was not just lucky, he was careful and courageous.
Journal of Higher Education
Being Lucky is as entertaining as it is informative. Wells' biographer, James H. Capshew, called it 'a manual of higher education management.'. . . Reading Wells' fascinating autobiography shows why it is no wonder that Indiana University is so proud of the great man and honors his accomplishments.
LOUISVILLE COURIER JOURNAL
An honest report by a most successful educator [and] a tribute to a great university and to a man with foresight who also had the courage to act on his convictions.
The Fort Wayne Journal-Gazette
Wells's humor, wit, and humanity pervade every chapter.
Indiana Magazine of History