Lasting Impression
The University of Maine's
Raymond H. Fogler Library is the largest research library in Maine, with
collections and services supporting UMaine faculty, students and staff,
as well as residents of the state. It is named for alumnus Raymond
Fogler, in recognition of his service to the University.
After earning a degree in biology from UMaine in 1915 and a master's
degree from Princeton two years later, Raymond Fogler launched his
career as one of the country's leading corporate executives.
In 1919, the Maine native moved to New York to work for W.T. Grant Co.
For the next 13 years, Fogler held various jobs — from stock boy to
director of personnel and real estate. Fogler then was hired by
Montgomery Ward in Chicago, where he worked his way up to the presidency
in six years. In 1940, he returned to W.T. Grant to be its president.
After 12 years of overseeing W.T. Grant's 500 department stores, Fogler
retired, only to be tapped by the Eisenhower administration to be
assistant secretary of the U.S. Navy.
Throughout his career, Fogler often returned to UMaine. For more than 80
years, he led or actively participated in every major fund raiser,
including those to build Memorial Gym and the library.
All seven of his children graduated from UMaine.
In 1996, Raymond Fogler died at his home in Exeter, Maine. He was 103.
"Lasting Impression" features a memorable person or event in UMaine
history.
