FAREWELL TO POPULAR PROFESSOR

Press, Volume LXXII, Issue 21866, 20 August 1936, Page 7

FAREWELL TO POPULAR PROFESSOR

PRESENTATION TO DR. W. B. BENHAM [THE PRESS Special Service.] DUNEDIN, August 19. At the end of his final lecture to students of the Otago University yesterday, Professor W. B. Benham, F.R.S., was presented by a member of the class with a handsome gold watch, suitably inscribed, and an illuminated address bearing the signatures of all this year’s students. 1 Reference was made by various speakers to Dr. Benham’s distinguished career, and the fact that he was recognised as a vorld authority on certain biological phases. He was the holder of a Fellowship of the Royal Society—the greatest honour in the scientific world. During his long term of 38 jears as professor of biology at Otago University he had proved himself a polished lecturer and a capable teacher, and in addition he had a most charming and witty personality. No finer guiding influence could be brought to bear upon the minds of young students than that exercised by Dr. Benham, who would always be remembered with the warmest affection and regard by his pupils. Replying, Dr Benham stated that he had merely done what he considered to be his duty. He was deeply touched b the expressions of regard tendered by the plass. and he warmly thanked them. His work had always been ’ near to bis hear 4 The gathering was brought to a close by the singing of “For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow” and “Auld Dang Syne,” » and cheers for Dr. Benham, whom one student described as “the most lovable personality and the best sport the students are ever likely to meet in their lives.” , *