Frank Everson Vandiver (December 9, 1925 – January 7, 2005) was an American Civil War historian, the 19th president of Texas A&M University and the former president of the University of North Texas, as well as acting president of Rice University. Vandiver wrote, co-wrote, or edited 24 books, and published over 100 scholarly articles or reviews. His 1977 book Black Jack: The Life and Times of John J. Pershing, was a runner-up for the National Book Award.
Early years
Vandiver was born on December 9, 1925, in Austin, Texas, to Harry Shultz and Maude Folmsbee (née Everson) Vandiver. He attended the public schools but was eventually pulled out by his parents, in favor of private tutoring. He joined the United States Army Air Forces during World War II and served as a historian.
Despite not having a high school diploma, following the war Vandiver was admitted to a graduate program at the University of Texas at Austin to study humanities and American studies through passing qualifying examinations. He was awarded a Rockefeller Fellowship for his studies.
Vandiver received his Master of Arts degree from the University of Texas in 1949 and was awarded a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Tulane University in 1951. He taught during the summer sessions at Louisiana State University from 1953 to 1957.
Texas A&M University
In 1981 Vandiver became president of Texas A&M University.
Vandiver resigned as president of A&M in 1988, citing a desire to spend more time on research and writing. Rather than leave the university, he established the Mosher Institute for Defense Studies, a national defense think tank, The institute was closed in 1993. He was also named a distinguished professor in the history department. The Houston Civil War Round Table renamed their annual award of merit the Frank E. Vandiver Award in 1985.
Personal life
The Houston Chronicle described Vandiver as "a colorful and articulate man with much personal charm". He had three children.
He received several honorary degrees during his life. He was awarded an HHD degree from Austin College in 1977. In 1989 and 1994 he was awarded an honorary DHL degree and BA degree from Lincoln College.
Vandiver died at his home in College Station, Texas, on January 7, 2005.