Gordon W. Blackwell (born April 27, 1911) was an American educator, professor, administrator and college president.
Born in Timmonsville, South Carolina, Blackwell grew up in Spartanburg.[1] His father Benjamin was a Baptist Minister[2] and his mother Amelia was a music teacher. Gordon was their only child. He earned his BA at Furman University in 1932 and a MA at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1933.[1][2] He earned a MA from Harvard University in 1937[2] then married Elizabeth Blair Lyles. Blackwell headed the Department of Sociology at Furman from 1937 until 1941,[2] while he also completed his doctorate from Harvard in 1940. He began as associate professor of Sociology[2] at UNC Chapel Hill from 1941 until 1957, leaving as Kenan Professor.[2] He served as Chancellor of the Women's College at the University of North Carolina from 1957 until 1960,[3] when he was offered the presidency of Florida State University.[1]
Blackwell was important in the process of racial integration at FSU. He managed growth, helped develop the academic program, oversaw numerous construction projects, and helped develop a balanced athletics program.[4]He placed more emphasis on donations by hiring a fundraising professional to direct the FSU Foundation and faculty received salary increases of nearly 50%.[4]
In 1965, Blackwell resigned at Florida State for the opportunity to return to Furman University as president at his alma mater.[1]
Blackwell served as Furman's president from 1965 to 1976, then became an educational consultant.[2]
Blackwell served on numerous boards, actively supported the arts, and held membership in the Rotary Club in three cities.[1]
Blackwell's first wife, Elizabeth 'Lib' Blair Lyles (1913–2000), graduated from Converse College in 1935.[6] They shared four children.[6] After her death, he married Jean Hollingsworth.[1]