"Of thirty men whom the Albion Board of Trustees had under consideration," said President Dickie in commenting upon his successor, "Dr. Laird is clearly the most desirable man; a man of fine physique, excellent culture, and good common sense, and one of the outstanding preachers in American Methodism."

Dr. Laird is a young man, thirty-nine years of age.  He was born of Scottish parents in Blantyre, Scotland, in October 1882.  John W. was one of eleven children.  When he was five years old the family moved to America and settle in Scranton, Pennsylvania.

Dr. Laird graduated from Syracuse university where he received his bachelor's and master's degrees.  During his ministry at New Haven, Conn., he took two years of special work at the Yale School of Religion.

For a number of years Dr. Laird has served in the following pastorates: Grace Church, New York city; First M.E. Church, Winstead, Conn.; First M.E. Church, New Haven, Conn.; and his present pastorate in Baltimore.

The new president has a record as an athlete during his student days.  He as a member of the football, track, and rowing teams at Syracuse, and helped to win the college cup in basketball.

"Dr. Laird will prove an executive and administrator of distinction in the history of Albion College," states the Michigan Christian Advocate, "following the exceptional career of President Dickie.  He will be inspired by ideals and achievements in administration which will challenge him to the best and broadest endeavor."

Dr. Laird's family consists of a wife and young son.  It is not known when they will arrive in Albion, but it is expected that Dr. Laird will visit the college in the near future.

From, College Board Chooses New Albion Leader.  Dr. J.W. Laird accepts position to be vacated by Dr. Dickie who retires at end of year.  Will take office in June.  Albion College Pleiad, 33:20, 1-2.