George Rea

George Peters Rea (1894 – 1978) was a banker, president of the Drexel Institute of Technology, and the first paid president of what is now the American Stock Exchange. After graduating, Rea served as a bond salesman for the Guaranty Trust Company before the war. In 1917, Rea entered the army during World War I and served one year overseas until was discharged as Captain in the 308th Machine Gun Battalion with the A.E.F. It was while in service in the trenches in World War I that he was exposed to mustard gas, contributing to breathing difficulties throughout his later life.

Banking Starting in 1925, Rea worked for Fidelity Trust Co. for four years as chief for its underwriting department, He was also responsible for taking an unstable bank and making it "one of the strongest institutions in the country." He left the position having "done such a good job that there is virtually no need for a full-time successor."

Drexel Institute In July 1942, after the death of Parke Kolbe, Rea was offered the presidency of the Drexel Institute of Technology. At the time he assumed office, August 1, 1942, it was said that he was "one of the youngest college president in the country." When Rea assumed presidency the Institute was undergoing financial and enrollment hardships due to World War II. Rea had a laid back style when dealing with students and staff, however, his methods in running the school were controversial, bringing forceful negative and positive responses. He served in that position until 1959 when he returned to New York at the age of 65. Rea died in 1978.