1930s

1931

Elementary School Closed

Following a successful trial of Cottey's teaching department practicing in Nevada's public schools, Cottey's elementary school is dropped.

1932

High School Dropped

The executive board of the P.E.O. Supreme Chapter decides to discontinue Cottey's academy (high school) to focus on the college department.

First State P.E.O. Scholarship

The first state P.E.O. scholarship given to a Cottey student is presented by the Colorado State Chapter.

1933

Dr. Prosser Ousted

Cottey President Dr. Prosser is asked to resign over concerns that she does not put enough emphasis on religion at the college. Dr. Florence Boehmer is appointed as her replacement.

1934

Founder's Day Moved

Founder’s Day is moved from October to March.

1935

Ten-Year Plan

A 10-year plan for Cottey is adopted by the P.E.O. at the Supreme Chapter convention in Yellowstone Park. Included is a provision for a new residence hall to house 100 students ― the future P.E.O. Hall.

Neale Hall after the fire, c. 1938.

1937

P.E.O.s Furnish Suites

August: The Missouri state chapter of P.E.O furnishes the northernmost suite of Main Hall in honor of Hallie Newell, president of Supreme Chapter.¹ In addition, Oklahoma P.E.O.s furnish a suite in Rosemary Hall.

Neale Hall Fire

Aug. 26: A fire starts in Neale Hall, destroying laboratory equipment and the entire upper floor. It is repaired by 1938 without the upper floor. It was a real crisis for Cottey, and sped up the planning for P.E.O. Hall.

Dr. Boehmer Resigns

Cottey President Dr. Boehmer resigns. Dr. Orpha Stockard, the Dean of Faculty, acts as president until 1938.

1938

P.E.O. Hall, c. 1940.

Mitchell Becomes President

Dr. Marjorie Mitchell is appointed President of Cottey.

1939

P.E.O. Hall Dedicated

Mar. 27: P.E.O. Hall is dedicated on Founder’s Day (V.A.C. Stockard’s birthday). Read about students moving into the building in this 1939 Cottey Bulletin article.