Foundational Stories: The Grace Family and Franklin

By Nickolas Neibauer ‘05
Director of Advancement and Alumni

One of the best parts of working for Franklin has been the opportunity to meet alumni from around the world and from throughout its eras. It is difficult to encapsulate the collective impact Franklin has had on its alumni in one statement. The institution has fostered a great deal of impressive journeys, careers, and lives. Those of us fortunate to have studied at Franklin owe a great deal to those who helped create Franklin. I am delighted to learn from them and remain excited to engage more alumni.

This spring, I had the opportunity to visit alumnus John S. Grace ’77 and his wife Lola Nashashibi Grace at their home.

Over lunch, John shared his experience and recollections from his time on campus, and how 18 other family members have either served the university or passed through its halls as students. It was John’s uncle, the late David R. Grace who was the Founding Chairman of the then Franklin College Board of Trustees. Mr. Grace became involved with Franklin as a result of his son Dick’s attendance.

As soon as I was back on campus, I phoned Founders Dr. Theo Brenner and Dr. Pat Tone to see what they could tell me about this man who helped get Franklin off its feet. Another best part of coming back to Franklin has been the mentorship of these two founders. Dr. Tone and Dr. Brenner both shared memories of just how helpful the Graces have been to Franklin. Theo went to his archive and supplied me with several photos.

Mr. David R. Grace was a member of the Fleming College Board of Trustees. He energetically supported the efforts of the faculty and administrators who sought to continue the concepts and ideals of international education after the Board of Trustees closed Fleming College at the termination of the 1969-1970 academic year. His leadership and strength were directly responsible for Franklin’s success during its initial years of operation and for its position today as an accredited institution in both the United States and Switzerland.

David’s brother Oliver R. Grace was another stalwart supporter of Franklin, serving on its Board of Trustees from 1987 until 1992. Oliver Grace, much like his brother David had in the seventies, played a central role in Franklin’s growth during the eighties. Alongside other family members, he recognized the need for Franklin to acquire its own campus. He and his family underwrote the entire cost of the David R. Grace Library in honor of his brother David

Mr. Oliver R. Grace’s wife Lorraine also served on Franklin’s Board of Trustees. In a 1996 Gazette interview, when asked about her decision to join the board, Mrs. Grace stated “I am delighted to be so closely involved with Franklin College. It has given each member of my family who has attended a greater awareness and appreciation for the world around them. Their horizons have been broadened through the languages they have studied, the travels they have taken and the strong friendships they have made with classmates from around the world.”