1924-1945: John A. Chase

from the 1939 Garnet &Black

A Florence native, Chase was born March 3, 1902. He attended The Citadel from September of 1918 to January of 1920, at which point he moved to USC. He studied there until 1922 when he received an A.B. He worked for short time in the United States Post Office and the Commercial and Savings Bank of Florence before becoming the University of South Carolina's second Registrar on April 1, 1924.

	1936- "Inevitably immaculate" Registrar John A. Chase and University President Leonard T. Baker

Chase announced in October of 1926 that a record enrollment of 1,429 had been reached at USC, and in December of that year, collected 228 applications for degrees.

Chase appears to have been fairly high profile, appearing to assume a leadership position in the non-academic administration. When he became Dean of Administration, he had apparently earned the title.

Chase was appointed Dean of Administration and Registrar in 1936, assuming the additional responsibilities of business manager.

Maxcy College was described as "Dean Chase's Realm". The 1941 Garnet & Black described him as "Dynamic...unimpeachable integrity...executive par excellence...101% efficiency...one of the youngest deans in the country."

Registration, 1938. "Fresh from High School and Summer Vacation the incoming horde mills about the Campus in endless confusion to 'get registered.'"

In 1942, he was "A veritable bundle of activity and enthusiasm...trouble shooter number one...efficiency plus...will keep his word with students..."It is quite probable"..."I'll talk it over with Dr. McKissick"...signs his name with a flourish...looks prosperous."

During Chase's tenure, the records-keeping device shifted from pen to typewriter.

Chase was drafted for military service in World War II, and Assistant Registrar Miriam Holland served as Acting Registrar in his stead from 1942 until 1944.

Upon Chase's return, he retained the role of Dean of Administration until the 1951-52 academic year.

Miss Miriam Holland, USC's Acting Registrar from 1942-1945. In 1939, the Garnet & Black waxed poetic: "Miss Holland is a buxom beaut Who seldom cracks a smile. But when she does, boys, she's so cute, She lays 'em in the aisle."