West Hall renamed for Blumel

The late Joseph C. Blumel, Portland State’s fourth president, was honored on Friday when the school renamed the former West Hall as Joseph C. Blumel Hall.

Blumel, who died just over one year ago, served as President from 1974 to 1986 and was the longest serving president of the university. He is especially respected for his work in helping the school develop after it became a four-year university and for his effort in establishing Portland State’s current identity as an urban school.

“Traditionally we have named buildings after the former presidents of this university,” said Interim President Michael Reardon, in reference to Epler and Kramer Halls, and the Millar Library. “Today we continue that tradition with this hall.”

The building was officially renamed at a dedication ceremony on Friday outside of the residence hall. In attendance were nearly 100 of Blumel’s family, friends and members of the Portland State community. Blumel’s wife Priscilla and his daughter Carolyn both unveiled the new nameplate and plaque on the Northeast corner of the building.

Amy Ross, executive assistant to the president, organized the dedication ceremony and the reception that followed.

“This is an opportunity for our community to honor Dr. Blumel’s devoted service,” Ross said.

Blumel began his PSU career as an economics professor after earning a Ph.D. in economics from the University of Oregon in 1956. He also served as the head of the economic department, dean of undergraduate students, dean of faculty and as vice president for Academic Affairs prior to becoming President in 1974.

“Joe cared deeply about the students here. He laid the foundation for Portland State to become a urban university,” said former Dean Nohad Toulan, who worked closely with Blumel during his tenure as president.

Toulan said that Blumel was visionary and innovative in approaching important issues at this university.

“He certainly cared about the problems that we were encountering, but he also understood that the young university had to take risks at that point,” he said.

Reardon, who worked at PSU as a professor and administrator during Blumel’s tenure, said that Blumel’s leadership was instrumental in helping PSU continue development as a university. He said Blumel helped the school move forward with establishing graduate programs.

Bill Lemman, who was a colleague of Blumel in the Oregon University System, remarked at Friday’s dedication ceremony that although Blumel will likely be remembered for his administrative work, his ability to teach was his most remarkable gift.

“He was simply a superb teacher,” Lemman said. “I have heard from many people that he was the best they had ever seen.”