The personal and academic papers of Donald R. Gerth consist of materials documenting the history of higher education in California and elsewhere in the last half of the 20th century and Gerth’s academic career at the University of Chicago, the Philippines, San Francisco State, the CSU Chancellors’ Office, Chico State, CSU Dominguez Hills, CSU Sacramento and the International Association of University Presidents. Included are a wide-ranging correspondence file, extensive CSU Committee work files, biographical materials and schedules, speeches, writings and research relating to the history of the California State University System including his book The People’s University (2010), reports relating to higher education, and photographs.

Donald R. Gerth was born in Chicago on December 4, 1928. After attending Chicago Public Schools, he was admitted to the University of Chicago at the age of 16. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in liberal arts at the age of 18 in 1947. He received his Masters degree in political science in 1951. While earning his M.A. degree he served as a Field Representative in Southeast Asia for the World University Service for one year. He also served as assistant to the President at Shimer College. In 1952 Gerth was commissioned as a Southeast Asian specialist in the U.S. Air Force and was responsible for various comptroller and intelligence assignments throughout Southeast Asia including the Philippines, Vietnam, India, Taiwan and elsewhere. He also served as lecturer in history at the University of the Philippines. In 1955, he married Beverly J. Hollman. In 1956 he was discharged from the Air Force as a Captain.

86 boxes. 78.5 linear ft

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