Biographical Writing through the Lens of Lawrence A. Cremin’s Leadership and Presidency at Teachers College

Abstract

This article examines the complexities of biographical writing through the lens of Lawrence Cremin’s (1925–1990) leadership and presidency at Teachers College, Columbia University. Cremin was president of Teachers College in the period 1974-1984 and a prolific author best known for his three-volume work American Education (published between 1970 and 1988). He was also a Professor of Education at Teachers College until his death in 1990. This article explores the subjectivity inherent in biographical writing, focusing on the ways in which archival research and personal reflection influenced the author’s evolving perceptions of Cremin. The article begins with a discussion of Cremin’s belief in the importance of educational thought that extended beyond formal schooling–an aspect that triggered the author’s initial interest in Cremin’s life and career. The narrative then focuses on Cremin’s presidency during a challenging time for higher education. Analysis revealed that as an institutional leader, Cremin struggled with shared governance approaches and consistently opted for isolated and autonomous administrative decisions rendered with the power of his position as president of the College. Throughout the article, the author describes his gradual discoveries of Cremin’s leadership experiences and complex beliefs, and emphasizes the uncertainty inherent in life-writing.