Dr. David Thomson (1870 - 1953) Inducted 1983

David Thomson was the son of James Thomson, a merchant in Orillia. He earned his B.A. degree at University of Toronto and then taught in the Orillia High School for three years. He received a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago and studied at the University of Munich, Germany.

In 1902 he became the Professor of Latin at the University of Washington in Seattle and rose to become Dean, Vice-President and Acting President. It is said he served in more capacities than any other professor in the history of the university.

Dean Thomson had a fine personality, a good Scottish wit and was a friend to all who came in contact with him. He had been a member of Orillia's chess club and continued to enjoy the game for many years. Golf and tennis were two sports he enjoyed. His reading interest ran to detective stories, and he had a library full of mystery books which he discussed animatedly with staff and students.

June 1948 saw the dedication of Thomson Hall, named after this beloved Dean as a tribute to his many contributions to the life of the university.