Description of the Collection

The records primarily document the ongoing functions of the Yale secretary's office, 1953-1971, during Reuben A. Holden's tenure as secretary. Series III includes the materials most closely associated with these functions, such as comprehensive files of annual and special reports, as well as documentation on Yale commencement ceremonies, honorary degree recipients, lectureships, prizes and scholarships, the university council committee, buildings dedication and use, and special events at Yale or in conjunction with New Haven, Connecticut. Series II more generally consists of materials on alumni activities, the Yale Corporation, academic departments, professional schools, Yale institutes, and various standing and ad hoc committees and councils. Series II also includes general alphabetical correspondence files. The records included in Series I document Holden's years as assistant to the president and associate secretary during 1947-1953, especially his involvement with alumni relations.