William Rainey Harper
William Rainey Harper | |
|---|---|
| Inaugural President of the University of Chicago | |
| In office 1891–1906 | |
| Succeeded by | Harry Pratt Judson |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 24, 1856 New Concord, Ohio, U.S. |
| Died | January 10, 1906 (aged 49) |
| Spouse | Ella Paul Harper |
| Children | 4 |
| Alma mater | |
| Profession | Scholar and educational administrator |
| Signature | |
William Rainey Harper (July 24, 1856 – January 10, 1906) was an American academic, an accomplished semiticist, and Baptist clergyman. A Yale University professor, Harper helped to establish both the University of Chicago and Bradley University and served as the inaugural president of both institutions. He served as the inaugural president of the University of Chicago from 1891 to 1906.