Nelson Rounds was born on May 4, 1804 in New York. A graduate of Union College in New York, he had been Professor of Ancient Languages at Cazenovia Seminary, editor of the Northern Christian Advocate, and presiding elder of several important districts in the church. Members of the board determined that at age 61, Rounds seemed to have the experience, dignity and prestige they were looking for in a president after Wythe’s administration. Some students expressed the belief that Rounds had been brought for the “purpose of civilizing the University” and described him as old fashioned, strict and severe. There is no doubt that the rules outlined in the 1968-69 catalog were much more particular than the previous one. Regardless of his lack of popularity with students, it was ill health that made it impossible for him to retain the position longer than two years. He passed away on January 2, 1874.
