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[[preprinted]]
VAL VERDE COUNTY WATER DISTRICT
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117 WEST NINTH STREET
LOS ANGELES 15, CALIFORNIA
VANDIKE 6945

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY
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March 29 , 1953.

Dr. F. D. Patterson
President
Tuskegee Institute
Tuskegee Institute, Alabama

Dear Dr. Patterson:

I was among the many Tuskegeeans here, as well as in other parts of the country, who were surprised and somewhat hurt to learn the news from the press of your unexpected resignation as President of Tuskegee Institute. It was hard to believe at first. 

I recall as a student there that spring afternoon of 1935 in the Institute Chapel when Dr. William Jay Schieffelin read from a slip of paper in his hand, the name of the man who was to become the third President of Tuskegee Institute.

After the Chapel service everyone was talking about the new President and just how he could take the place of Dr. Moten. I had a talk with one of the members of the faculty and asked what he had to say about the Board's selection. He replied, I think that he is too young and have not had enough experence for the position.I believe from that moment, to this writing, I have been one of your greatest supporters. At the school and since leaving the campus , when your stand on different national issues were challenged, by some section of the press as well as some individuals.

I have religiously believed and followed the educational philosophy of Dr. Washington and Dr. Moten. I do feel that you have kept faith with that educational philosophy, and at the same time kept Tuskegee Institute in the position of leadership.

I am very much interested in who will be the next President of Tuskegee Institute. I am not too interested in the man as a personality, as I am the man who will be faithful to the traditions of the school. One who will not weaken in the face of criticisms when the educational philosophy of Dr. Washington is challenged. That philosophy which has made Tuskegee Institute great; and that which you and your predecessor, Dr. Moten have continued to keep a live.