Sincerely, Frank; Frank R. Reade: Professor, President, and Camp Director.  On August 18, 2006, Valdosta State University reached the 100th anniversary of its charter. It is my pleasure to write a brief account of the life and career of our institution’s third president, Frank R. Reade, as a contribution to this Centennial. This 171-page biography is a referenced, brief account of the family, life, and career of Dr. Reade, who served from 1934 until 1948.  An English professor by training, Reade left innumerable written records of his activities which are a part of the Frank R. Reade Collection at Valdosta State University.  Information from the collection helped this researcher discover more about his humor, interactions, and attitudes; one of his customs was signing each piece of correspondence warmly and simply “Sincerely, Frank.” This book continues my personal commitment to assist in the preservation of Valdosta State University’s history by documenting those individuals who have enriched lives and left lasting impressions on our institution and its culture.  Historical aspects of the University’s growth are a significant portion of this work which began in December 2006 and concluded in January 2008. 

It is available for purchase at www.lulu.com/mmblack or can be found at the Valdosta State University Library, Lowndes County Historical Society Library, South Georgia Regional Library, the Episcopal High School of Virginia Library, or the Library of Virginia in Richmond.

Biography:
Michael M. Black, a native of Valdosta, Georgia, attended Valdosta State University where he earned a BBA in Finance, a Master’s Degree in Higher Education Leadership, and a second Master’s Degree in Instructional Technology; he completed his doctoral degree at the Florida State University majoring in Higher Education Administration.  His academic interests include higher education finance, multiculturalism, auxiliary services, instructional technology, accreditation as it relates to business affairs, and higher education history.  These interests and experiences inspired him to write his first work, a historical reference book titled A Mosaic of People and Events in the History of Valdosta State University’s Business Operations, 1906 to 2006.  He has traveled throughout the United States, United Kingdom, Europe, and Central America.  His principal hobby is genealogy.  He expects to continue working in the field of higher education finance, strategic research, planning, and policy.