March 22-23, 2001

ITEM 110-1009-R0301  Renaming of the Lodge as the Emma B. Lommasson Center; The University of Montana-Missoula

THAT:    Consistent with Board of Regents' Policy 1004.1 Naming of Buildings, the Board of Regents of the Montana University System authorizes The University of Montana-Missoula to name the facility known as "the Lodge," the "Emma B. Lommasson Center." 

 

EXPLANATION:   Emma B. Lommasson's association with The University of Montana began as a student at the age of 17, in 1929. After earning her degree in Mathematics, she returned to her hometown of Sand Coulee to teach school until 1937. In fall of 1937, she returned to UM-M to pursue her master's degree in Mathematics. At that time she began her first campus job as a teaching assistant and administrative secretary for the Department of Mathematics.

During World War II, Mrs. Lommasson taught navigation, civil air regulations, and Mathematics to young men in training to become pilots on campus. In 1945, she became the University's first veterans' advisor, and in 1946, she assumed the position of Assistant Registrar. Until her retirement in 1977, she worked in the Registrar's Office and Admissions at varying positions, all the time helping students.

In 1977, Emma Lommasson received recognition at UM-M's 80th commencement ceremonies by the Faculty Senate in recognition of her outstanding career of service to students and faculty of the University. Later that year she earned the Distinguished Alumni Award. After retirement, Mrs. Lommasson volunteered part time for 12 years as an academic advisor and also assisted in the Registrars Office. She served as the Grand Marshall at the 1998 Homecoming parade.

Mrs. Lommasson helped generations of UM-M students while making an indelible mark on their lives. As one person said, "She is a very gracious lady who has touched the lives of many students and faculty here at the University and this would be a fitting tribute to this grand lady."