Ray Lyman Wilbur, American physician, academic, and politician, 31st United States Secretary of the Interior (d. 1949)

Ray Lyman Wilbur (April 13, 1875 – June 26, 1949) was a distinguished American medical doctor, educator, and public servant whose career profoundly impacted both academic and political landscapes. Born in Iowa, his journey led him to California, where he would forge a lifelong connection with Stanford University. His early career began in medicine, a field where his intellect and dedication quickly shone, culminating in his appointment as dean of the Stanford University Medical School.

Wilbur's extensive and varied career is most notably characterized by two significant leadership roles: serving as the third president of Stanford University and as the 31st United States Secretary of the Interior.

Stanford University Presidency

Ray Lyman Wilbur's association with Stanford was deep-rooted; he wasn't just its president, but also an alumnus (Class of 1896) and a former faculty member. He first took the helm as the third president of Stanford University in 1916. His initial tenure oversaw a period of significant growth and academic development for the institution, solidifying its reputation as a leading center for learning and research. He would hold this esteemed position for an impressive 27 years, making him one of Stanford's longest-serving presidents, a period interrupted only by his call to national service.

Service as United States Secretary of the Interior

In 1929, President Herbert Hoover, a long-time friend and fellow Stanford alumnus, appointed Wilbur as the 31st United States Secretary of the Interior. This was a critical period for the nation, marked by economic challenges and a growing awareness of natural resource management. During his four-year tenure, from 1929 to 1933, Secretary Wilbur played a pivotal role in overseeing vast public lands, national parks, and Native American affairs. A defining achievement of his time in office was his instrumental involvement in the Boulder Canyon Project, which led to the construction of the Hoover Dam – a monumental engineering feat that transformed the American Southwest, providing water, power, and flood control.

Upon the conclusion of his term as Secretary, Wilbur returned to Stanford University in 1933, resuming his duties as president and continuing to guide the institution through the remaining years of the Great Depression and into the beginnings of World War II, before retiring in 1943. His legacy at Stanford includes fostering academic excellence, expanding the university's research capabilities, and navigating complex national and global challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What were Ray Lyman Wilbur's primary professional roles?
Ray Lyman Wilbur was primarily known as an American medical doctor, the third president of Stanford University, and the 31st United States Secretary of the Interior.
When did Ray Lyman Wilbur serve as the President of Stanford University?
He served as Stanford University's president from 1916 to 1943, with an interruption between 1929 and 1933 when he was the Secretary of the Interior.
Under which U.S. President did Wilbur serve as Secretary of the Interior?
He served as the Secretary of the Interior under President Herbert Hoover, a fellow Stanford alumnus and close associate.
What was a significant accomplishment during his time as Secretary of the Interior?
A notable achievement was his crucial role in the Boulder Canyon Project, which led to the construction of the Hoover Dam, a landmark infrastructure project in the American Southwest.
How was Ray Lyman Wilbur connected to Stanford University beyond his presidency?
His connection was profound; he was an alumnus (Class of 1896), a former faculty member, and dean of the Medical School before becoming president. He devoted much of his career to the institution.