DR. HANSEN RESIGNS

Southland Times, Issue 18078, 3 May 1919, Page 6

DR. HANSEN RESIGNS

TECHNICAL COLLEGE’S LOSS, EULOGISTIC SPEECHES AT BOARD MEETING. 1 Dr D. E. Hansen, who was recently appointed Director of the Christchurch Technical College, tendered his resignation to last night’s meeting of the local Board. The Chairman (Mr Riddell), said that, although he congratulated Dr Hanson very sincerely on' his promotion, he regretted very much that his services were going to be lost to Invercargill. He had been the sustenance of the College, and it was because of his thorough efficiency that the number of students had increased so much from year to year. Mr F. W. Gresham moved that Dr Hansen’s resignation be accepted, and in doing so said that it was a pity that Christchurch should reap the benefit of Dr Hansen’s services, and they could only part with him with the greatest regret. Mr J. Gilkison seconded the motion, and said that Dr Hansen would be a distinct loss to Southland.

Mr A. L. Wylie added that Dr Hansen was one of the bright and particular stars of Southland, and had distinguished himself especially in literature. The. wisdom he had shown in managing the school was displayed in his management of the Board. The success of the school was due to his work, and his departure would be much regretted. Mr A. lo H. Hoyles said that he had always been impressed with the tact Dr Hansen had shown, and his departure would be a distinct loss to the province. He had done a great deal for the Chamber of Commerce, which appreciated his services very highly. He thought the Board should take the initiative in arranging a proper send-off.

Mr R. G. Speirs said that the Director was held in very high esteem particularly by the young men who attended the plumber’s class, and his great work had been appreciated by the whole of Southland.

Mr J. H. Reed said that he had always felt that the Technical College had a splendid staff, as they were always successful when they applied for positions in other centres. He had hoped, however, that the Board would be able to retain the services of Dr Hansen. He hoped that the time would come when hv would occupy the chief position in Technical Education in the Dominion. It was an honour to be associated with the Board because it had had such a man for its Director.

In reply Dr Hansen said that he could not express his feelings of appreciation for the kindness shown him by the Board. When a man was interested in the work, the knowledge that he possessed the confidence of the Board assisted him more than it realised. He was just in the position of any ambitious man, and while he regretted leaving Invercargill, he felt it his duty to take the opportunity offered to him.

Dr Hansen’s resignation was accepted, and it was decided to present him with an enlarged photograph of the members of the Board.