Entertainers and Earl: Autographed Photographs from the Earl Williams Collection

Earl R. Williams (BS 1951, MA 1960) joined Ball State University in 1959 as director of conferences and special events and in 1967 became general manager of Emens Auditorium, a position he held for 25 years.

Upon his retirement the Ball State University Board of Trustees passed a resolution to rename the lobby of Emens Auditorium the "Earl R. Williams Lounge." The resolution stated that "Mr. Williams is a major reason for the success of the auditorium during its initial 25-year operation. Through his unique personal skills and professional accomplishments, Mr. Williams has enhanced many lives and has brought honor and distinction to Ball State University." The board recognized Williams for "scheduling programs appealing to a variety of tastes while keeping ticket prices both competitive and reasonable." (Muncie Evening Press ,6/22/89, p. 24)

In 2002, Williams donated his collection of autographed photographs to the Ball State University Archives and Special Collections. Forty of two hundred and twenty-eight photographs in the collection were exhibited in Archives and Special Collections, from November 6, 2002 through January 31, 2003. Twelve of the images are used in this online exhibit. For further information, call 765-285-5078.