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President William V. Muse, 1984-1992

William V. Muse was known for his cooperative efforts with the city. He led the University as it “spanned the tracks,” uniting the campus with Akron’s central business district by acquiring the Polsky’s building on Main Street and its large parking deck on High Street, and the former Greyhound bus terminal on Broadway, which is now the site of the College of Business Administration building. Muse and city leaders also worked together to turn Buchtel Avenue into Buchtel Common, replacing a busy street in the middle of campus with a nicely landscaped, winding brick pedestrian walkway.

1986

The Ray C. Bliss Institute of Applied Politics is created to promote effective citizen involvement in politics. The Institute is named after a distinguished chairman of the state and national Republican Committee, who also served as Chairman of the University's Board of Trustees.

1987

The section of Buchtel Avenue that runs through campus is closed and, during the next two years, will be transformed into Buchtel Common.

1988

The University establishes the world’s first College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering. What began nearly 80 years before as a few courses in rubber chemistry has evolved into the largest academic program of its kind in the world. The city once known as the “Rubber Capital of the World” now is an international center of polymer research.

The University of Akron Press is founded. By 2001, it will publish 46 books and earn numerous national awards.

1991

The Polymer Science Building (later to be named the Goodyear Polymer Center) is dedicated. It will become a landmark for the campus and the city.

1992

Marion A. Ruebel serves as acting president from March through July, while a search is completed to replace President Muse.