Wilbert E. Locklin standing with Dick Whiting and Doug Coupe

1965

This photograph shows Wilbert E. Locklin, the ninth president of Springfield College, standing with Dick Whiting and Doug Coupe. Dr. Wilbert E. Locklin (April 2, 1920 – March 4, 2006) was raised in Washington, D.C. He graduated from John Hopkins University in 1942. During World War II, he served on bomber crews and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. After his military service, Locklin returned to work at Johns Hopkins. In 1965, Locklin was named president of Springfield College, where he served for twenty years. He was responsible for raising funds and developing strategic plans for Babson Library, Cheney Dining Hall, Fuller Arts Center, Gulick Hall, the Physical Education Complex, Linkletter Natatorium, and the Towne Health Center. He also introduced new academic programs in business, physical therapy, and YMCA studies. Furthermore, he was the driving force in expanding the college's international scope through his development of programs in China, Japan, Hong Kong, and Saudi Arabia. Following his retirement in 1985, Locklin founded Locklin Management Services, which helped local nonprofit organizations with fundraising. Dick Whiting and Doug Coup were both members of the 1965 Springfield football team that had an undefeated season. Whiting was awarded honorable mention All New England during the 1965 season.