ISAAC CONRAD KETLER
(1876-1913)
While many local people made significant contributions to the beginnings of Grove City College, the school was the dream and lifelong work of the Ketler and Pew families. Isaac C. Ketler came to Grove City in 1876 to start a select school in which just 13 students enrolled. By the turn of the century, the enrollment had grown to 660 students, the faculty was enlarged to 20 members and the campus had increased to 40 acres with four substantial buildings.

ALEXANDER T. ORMOND
(1913-1915)
Dr. Ormond came to Grove City College from Princeton and knew the College well because he had worked closely with Dr. Isaac Ketler in the Bible school and in the school of philosophy each summer since 1908. Under Dr. Ormond's leadership, the College's faculty continued to expand, the curriculum underwent a major revision leading to degrees in bachelor of arts, literature and science; master of arts and doctor of philosophy.

WEIR CARLYLE KETLER
(1916-1956)
The 1917 College yearbook attests to the fact that Dr. Weir Ketler was openly welcomed as the third president of Grove City College. He was a product of the school, a familiar and beloved professor and coach - feared by few people and highly respected by most. During his tenure as president, Dr. W. Ketler led the College through some extremely difficult times for our country: an economic depression, two world wars and others. For example, during World War II the enrollment dropped by more than 50 percent! But the College responded by operating several defense training programs for the government, making it possible for the school to survive.

JOHN STANLEY HARKER
(1956-1971)
Dr. J. Stanley Harker, a Presbyterian minister, returned to his alma mater in 1956 to become her fourth president. During his administration, the student body grew from 1,200 to 2,050 and the number of faculty members increased from 80 to 120. The curriculum of the school underwent extensive revision, the number of books in the library more than doubled, and eight buildings and several additions were constructed. Homecoming, Parents' Day, and the sports program were expanded and greater emphasis was placed on alumni and public relations.

CHARLES SHERRARD MACKENZIE
(1971-1991)
Also a Presbyterian minister, Dr. MacKenzie was a newcomer to the College when he arrived in 1971. During his term of office there was an increased emphasis in religious life on campus and three major buildings were constructed (Mary Ethel Pew Dormitory, J. Howard Pew Fine Arts Center and the Weir C. Ketler Technological Learning Center). Perhaps the most significant change was the introduction of the Keystone Curriculum which consisted of four courses required of all students, giving them a common grounding in the liberal arts tradition.

JERRY H. COMBEE
(1991-1995)
At the time of Dr. MacKenzie's retirement, Dr. Combee was promoted to president from the position of academic dean at the College. Dr. Combee was instrumental in moving the College into a position of national recognition and prominence through a greatly expanded marketing and public relations program. The academic program was also strengthened and he placed a great importance on improved relationships between the College and the community in which it is located.

JOHN H. MOORE
(1996-2003)
Dr. John H. Moore came to Grove City College in June 1996 with an extensive resume, and left a legacy of excellence and service. In October 1996, Moore led the College through its withdrawal from federal student loan programs, which completed the College’s break from federal ties. Soon after, Moore helped lead the first public campaign, Change & Commitment. As a result of the $60 million effort, the Hall of Arts and Letters, Student Activities Center and addition to the Pew Fine Arts Center were constructed. An experienced international educator, Moore also encouraged the College to prepare students for Rhodes and Fulbright Scholarships and he instituted student exchanges in Japan and South Korea. Moore also kept the College at the forefront of technology and he and his wife, Sue, were instrumental in the College’s 125th Anniversary Celebration in 2001.