Gordon Williams Blackwell

Gordon W. Blackwell (born April 27, 1911) was an American educator, professor, administrator and college president.

Early life and education Born in Timmonsville, South Carolina, Blackwell grew up in Spartanburg. and his mother Amelia was a music teacher. Gordon was their only child. He earned his BA at Furman University in 1932 and a MA at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1933. when he was offered the presidency of Florida State University.

College president Blackwell was important in the process of racial integration at FSU. He managed growth, helped develop the academic program, oversaw numerous construction projects, and helped develop a balanced athletics program. He placed more emphasis on donations by hiring a fundraising professional to direct the FSU Foundation and faculty received salary increases of nearly 50%. Received seven honorary degrees. After her death, he married Jean Hollingsworth.