August 17, 2016

James A. MacAlister serves as the inaugural president of the Drexel Institute of Art, Science and Industry. Formerly the first superintendent of Philadelphia’s public school district, MacAlister is chosen as Drexel’s first president because of his strong advocation of practical training. He expands Drexel during his presidency, with the first graduating class containing 70 students and the last class in his presidency reaching 500. He also builds, donates and maintains Drexel’s “Museum,” now known as the Drexel Collection, and appoints his daughter, Mary T. MacAlister, as the first curator. In 1913, MacAlister resigns in ill health after serving as Drexel president for 22 years, the longest tenure ever. Drexel trustee Horace Churchman serves as president pro term and MacAlister dies six months later. MacAlister Hall is named after him.