Bookplates

The Ralph E. Hansmann Library Fund

July 1, 1969

This fund was established by those who had a great affection and respect for Ralph E. Hansmann, Class of 1940.

Raised in Utica, New York, Ralph majored in history at Hamilton and was active with the Emerson Literary Society and the debate team. He excelled in his studies, graduating Phi Beta Kappa. He and his wife, Doris, met while on opposing debate teams – Doris representing Elmira College where she was studying nursing. They married following graduation.

After his time at Hamilton, Ralph went on to receive a master’s degree in business administration from Harvard. He then enlisted in the U.S. Navy. Following World War II, he worked in a private investment firm in New York City for 60 years.

Ralph remained a loyal and committed alumnus serving the College in multiple capacities. He was elected as a Charter Trustee in 1969. becoming a Life Trustee in 1988. In 2008, he received the College’s Bell Ringer Award in recognition of his various influential roles as an alumnus, including service on the Trustee committee on investments.