DSU immortalizes memory of first Dean of Arts and Sciences-Continued

Dr. James Robinson was one of LaForge's students and also worked as a faculty member under the Dean. "The library is the most important building on any campus. It serves as the center and as the heart of any university. Dr. LaForge himself spent hours choosing books that form the collection here today." Robinson, now Professor of History at Delta State added, "He also made sure that the library was adequately funded. Once you have been around someone of such order, your life will never be the same. No matter the subject, he was always able to discuss it with
ease. His classes were like a drink that tastes good when swallowed, but left you thirsting for more."

LaForge, who was born in 1923 in Waterburg, CT, grew up in Dover, New Hampshire. LaForge received a both a bachelor's and master's degree from the University of New Hampshire. However, while pursuing his college education, the call to serve his country put his dreams of academic greatness on hold - once to serve in WWII and again during the Korean War. In 1954, LaForge received his Doctorate in European history from the University of North Carolina. He taught history at the University of Southern Mississippi before accepting a position at Delta State.

The Roberts~ LaForge library is also named in honor of Mississippi Senator William Beauregard Roberts, who played an instrumental role in passing the bill that founded the University in 1924.

Dr. LaForge and his wife Jeanne had three children William N. LaForge of Oakhill, VA and Lawrence E. LaForge from Reno, Nev. and Suzanne M. LaForge from Acton, Maine.