Sidney Rand's remarks on naming
the Clemens M. Granskou Complex

"The years following World War II saw major changes and adjustments in the programs and the style of American colleges. Some colleges kept pace with vigor and yet maintained a consciousness of their continuity with the past. St. Olaf College was one of these.

"From 1943 to 1963, Clemens M. Granskou served as president. From the start of his administration, he recognized the needs of the new generation. Enrollment doubled during his presidency, and twelve major buildings were added to the campus, among them the St. Olaf Center and Administration Building. As significant as anything that occurred during Dr. Granskou’s tenure was the “coming of age” of the St. Olaf administration. His presidency saw the development of a more carefully planned administrative structure, the clarifying of lines of responsibility, and, not least, the provision of a special place on campus where administrative offices could be housed.

"Something similar could be said for many of the activities and concerns surrounding non-academic campus life. The St. Olaf Center was planned and built. It was never envisioned as a building set apart exclusively for student activities. The building was to serve students to be sure, but also faculty, staff, alumni, and campus visitors. The St. Olaf Center symbolized the sharing of life by all elements of the campus community.

"In the midst of these adaptations to new circumstances, in the post-World War II world, President Granksou continued to be the provocative chapel speaker, the open-minded leader in both church and educational circles, and the warm friend of all. Recognizing the many contributions of President Granskou to St. Olaf College, the Board designates the St. Olaf Center and the Administration Building the Clemens M. Granksou Complex. It is the intention of the Board that this name will be a continuing reminder of the special place that President Granskou occupies in the history of St. Olaf College."

— President Sidney Rand, Founders’ Day, Nov. 6, 1973