The inquiry centers on establishing the specific year that William Alexander Rankin completed his studies at Frostburg State University in Maryland. Determining this fact involves accessing and analyzing relevant institutional records, biographical data, or alumni listings associated with the university.
Ascertaining the date of graduation provides valuable information for genealogical research, historical record-keeping, and potential connections with other alumni from the same graduating class. This specific detail can contribute to a more complete biographical profile of the individual in question and allow for a contextualization of his subsequent professional or personal achievements.
To locate the graduation year, one might consult Frostburg State University’s archives, alumni directories, or utilize online databases dedicated to educational records. Publicly available biographical information regarding William Alexander Rankin could also provide this crucial piece of data.
1. Graduation year
The specific year of graduation is the definitive answer to the inquiry “when did william alexander rankin graduate from frostburg in maryland.” It represents the culmination of academic studies and the formal conferral of a degree. Locating this information directly resolves the central question.
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Direct Identifier
The graduation year serves as a primary key in academic records. It directly links William Alexander Rankin to a specific cohort of graduates at Frostburg State University. It is a discrete data point that unequivocally answers the posed question.
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Contextual Marker
Beyond the precise year, it provides a temporal context. It allows researchers to situate Rankin’s academic experience within the broader history of Frostburg State University and the social and economic conditions of that era. For instance, knowing the graduation year allows for an understanding of the curriculum, faculty, and overall student body composition at that specific time.
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Database Anchor
In institutional databases and alumni directories, the graduation year acts as a crucial search parameter. It allows for efficient filtering and retrieval of records associated with Rankin, ensuring that researchers can isolate the relevant information from potentially vast datasets. Its accuracy is paramount for effective data management.
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Biographical Foundation
The graduation year forms a cornerstone of Rankin’s biographical timeline. It marks a significant transition in his life and provides a starting point for understanding his subsequent career path, personal achievements, and contributions to society. It is a foundational element in constructing a comprehensive narrative of his life.
The determination of the graduation year is not merely an exercise in data retrieval; it is a crucial step in contextualizing William Alexander Rankin’s academic and professional life within the historical framework of Frostburg State University and the broader socio-economic landscape of Maryland at that time. Identifying this year unlocks access to a richer understanding of his experiences and achievements.
2. Rankin’s enrollment
The commencement of William Alexander Rankin’s academic journey at Frostburg State University, represented by his enrollment, is intrinsically linked to the determination of his graduation year. Enrollment marks the initiation of studies, establishing the earliest possible timeframe for graduation. The duration of the academic program, typically four years for a bachelor’s degree, combined with the enrollment date, provides a crucial baseline for estimating the likely graduation period. Any deviation from this standard timeline, such as leaves of absence or extended study periods, would necessitate adjustments to the estimated graduation year.
Accessing enrollment records can offer a precise starting point for the investigation. If the enrollment date is available, it narrows the search parameters within university archives and alumni directories. For instance, if Rankin enrolled in the fall of 1910, a standard four-year program suggests a graduation year around 1914. However, this is contingent upon continuous enrollment. Should records indicate a break in studies, the potential graduation year shifts accordingly. Therefore, enrollment data is not merely a preliminary detail but a fundamental component in accurately establishing the graduation timeframe. In cases where graduation records are incomplete or missing, enrollment information serves as a reliable proxy to guide the investigative process.
In summary, Rankin’s enrollment constitutes the starting point of his academic narrative at Frostburg State University. This initial date acts as a critical constraint in determining his graduation year. By establishing the commencement of his studies, the enrollment record enables a more focused and efficient search for subsequent academic milestones, including the definitive graduation date. This connection underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to historical research, where seemingly disparate pieces of information coalesce to form a cohesive understanding of an individual’s academic history.
3. Frostburg Records
Frostburg State University’s official records represent the primary source of information for determining William Alexander Rankin’s graduation year. These institutional documents, maintained by the university, hold the most authoritative data pertaining to student enrollment, academic progress, and degree conferrals. The accuracy and completeness of these records are paramount to resolving the inquiry.
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Student Transcripts
Transcripts provide a chronological account of a student’s academic history, including enrollment dates, courses taken, grades received, and the date of degree conferral. Rankin’s transcript, if available, would directly state his graduation year and the degree awarded. Its presence in the university archives would offer definitive confirmation.
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Alumni Directories and Graduation Lists
Frostburg State University may have published alumni directories or graduation lists that include the names of graduates and their respective graduation years. These publications serve as a readily accessible source of information and can be cross-referenced with other records to ensure accuracy. Historical directories, in particular, are valuable resources for researchers.
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University Archives and Historical Documents
The university archives house a variety of historical documents, including commencement programs, yearbooks, and administrative records. These materials can provide contextual information about graduation ceremonies and student life, potentially containing references to William Alexander Rankin’s graduation. Access to these archives is crucial for a comprehensive investigation.
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Enrollment and Registration Records
While not directly indicating graduation year, enrollment and registration records establish the timeframe during which Rankin was a student at Frostburg State University. This information can be used to estimate a potential graduation year, assuming a standard course of study. These records provide a crucial starting point for narrowing the search for a definitive graduation date.
The utilization of Frostburg State University’s records is central to establishing the precise graduation year of William Alexander Rankin. These records, ranging from detailed transcripts to historical documents, offer the most reliable and direct evidence for answering the posed question. A thorough examination of these resources is essential for achieving an accurate and verifiable result.
4. Alumni directories
Alumni directories serve as potential repositories of information directly relevant to determining the graduation year of William Alexander Rankin from Frostburg State University in Maryland. These directories, if they exist for the relevant time period, compile the names and, crucially, the graduation years of former students. The presence of Rankin’s name in such a directory, coupled with a specific year, would provide definitive evidence of when he completed his studies. The absence of his name, however, does not definitively preclude graduation, as directories may be incomplete or not universally comprehensive.
The effectiveness of utilizing alumni directories hinges on their availability and the level of detail they contain. Early 20th-century directories, for instance, might be less detailed than contemporary versions, potentially offering only names and degrees without specific graduation dates. However, even limited information can narrow the search parameters for other records, such as commencement programs or university archives. For example, if a directory lists Rankin as having earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, it suggests he likely attended Frostburg for a period commensurate with that program’s requirements, influencing the timeframe to investigate.
In conclusion, alumni directories represent a valuable, though potentially incomplete, resource for ascertaining the graduation year of William Alexander Rankin. Their utility lies in their potential to provide direct confirmation or to narrow the range of possible graduation years, facilitating further investigation within Frostburg State University’s broader historical records. The existence, accessibility, and content of such directories significantly impact the efficiency and accuracy of determining Rankin’s graduation date.
5. Commencement programs
Commencement programs, official documents produced by Frostburg State University for graduation ceremonies, represent a highly valuable resource for determining the specific year William Alexander Rankin graduated. These programs typically list the names of all students who received degrees during a particular commencement, providing direct evidence of graduation.
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Listing of Graduates
The primary function of a commencement program is to enumerate the graduates of a given year. Rankin’s name appearing within a program for a specific year would confirm his graduation in that year. The program acts as a formal record of degree conferral by the institution.
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Program Content Context
Beyond a simple list of names, commencement programs often include details such as the type of degree awarded (e.g., Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science), honors received (e.g., cum laude, magna cum laude), and sometimes even the graduate’s major. This contextual information, while secondary to the graduation year, can further solidify the identification of William Alexander Rankin if multiple individuals with similar names attended the university.
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Availability and Archival Practices
The utility of commencement programs is contingent upon their preservation and accessibility. If Frostburg State University maintains a comprehensive archive of these programs, locating the relevant document becomes significantly easier. The absence of a program for a particular year does not necessarily negate Rankin’s graduation, but it necessitates alternative avenues of investigation.
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Cross-Referencing with Other Records
Commencement programs are most effective when used in conjunction with other university records, such as alumni directories and student transcripts. Cross-referencing information from multiple sources increases the confidence in the accuracy of the findings. For instance, if Rankin’s name appears in a commencement program and an alumni directory lists him with the same graduation year, the evidence becomes substantially more compelling.
In summary, commencement programs offer a direct and authoritative means of establishing the graduation year of William Alexander Rankin from Frostburg State University. Their value lies in their explicit listing of graduates and the potential for contextual information, but their effectiveness hinges on their availability, completeness, and use in conjunction with other archival materials. A thorough search for relevant commencement programs represents a critical step in resolving the central inquiry.
6. Historical archives
Historical archives, particularly those maintained by Frostburg State University and related institutions in Maryland, are crucial for definitively answering the query “when did william alexander rankin graduate from frostburg in maryland.” These archives serve as repositories of primary source materials documenting the university’s history and the academic careers of its students.
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Student Records and Transcripts
Student records and transcripts, if preserved within the historical archives, offer the most direct evidence of Rankin’s graduation year. Transcripts typically include enrollment dates, courses taken, grades, and the date the degree was conferred. These records are authoritative and provide verifiable confirmation of his academic milestones.
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University Publications and Catalogs
Historical university publications, such as catalogs and yearbooks, can provide contextual information and potentially list graduates. Catalogs describe academic programs, and yearbooks may feature graduating students. While not as definitive as transcripts, these publications offer valuable supporting evidence.
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Commencement Programs and Event Records
Commencement programs detail the graduates of each ceremony. Archival copies of these programs would explicitly list Rankin’s name alongside the graduation year. Event records related to commencement ceremonies, such as photographs or newspaper clippings, could also offer supplementary information.
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Alumni Association Records and Databases
Historical records from Frostburg State University’s Alumni Association, if they exist, might include directories or databases containing graduation information. These resources, maintained for alumni engagement, can offer a centralized point of access to graduation years and contact details.
The effective utilization of historical archives requires systematic investigation and careful review of relevant documents. While access to these archives may be subject to institutional policies and preservation concerns, they represent the most reliable pathway to accurately determining William Alexander Rankin’s graduation year from Frostburg State University.
7. Rankin’s biography
A biographical account of William Alexander Rankin can significantly aid in determining his graduation year from Frostburg State University in Maryland. Although the biography may not explicitly state the graduation year, it often contains contextual details that allow for its accurate deduction or verification.
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Chronological Markers
A well-constructed biography typically outlines key events in Rankin’s life in chronological order. These events, such as his year of birth, early education, professional achievements, and family milestones, provide a framework within which his time at Frostburg State University can be situated. Even if the precise graduation year is absent, the biography may include information like his age upon entering a particular profession, which can be correlated with standard graduation ages to estimate the year.
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Educational History References
The biography may include direct or indirect references to his education at Frostburg State University. It might mention the degree he pursued, the field of study, or specific professors he studied under. Such details can be cross-referenced with university records or alumni directories to pinpoint the graduation year. Furthermore, the biography may describe his academic achievements or involvement in extracurricular activities, further contextualizing his time at the institution.
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Professional Trajectory Connection
Rankin’s biography will likely detail his professional career following his education. The commencement of his professional life often closely follows graduation. If the biography indicates when he began a particular job or entered a certain field, this information can be used to infer his graduation year. For instance, if the biography states that he began practicing law in 1925 and typically individuals enter law practice shortly after graduating, it provides a strong indication of a graduation year around that time.
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Family History Context
Family history information, such as marriage dates or the birth years of his children, can also provide clues. If the biography mentions that he married shortly after graduating from Frostburg, the marriage date can help approximate the graduation year. Similarly, if his children were born several years after his presumed graduation, it reinforces the likelihood of that timeframe being accurate.
In essence, a biography of William Alexander Rankin serves as a supplementary document that complements official university records. Even without directly stating the graduation year, it furnishes a contextually rich narrative from which the year can be reasonably inferred or verified. By carefully analyzing the chronological markers, educational references, professional trajectory, and family history within his biography, a more accurate determination of “when did william alexander rankin graduate from frostburg in maryland” can be achieved.
8. University history
The historical context of Frostburg State University is intrinsically linked to ascertaining the graduation year of William Alexander Rankin. Understanding the university’s operational norms, record-keeping practices, and academic calendar during Rankin’s attendance is essential for accurately determining when he completed his studies.
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Curriculum and Degree Requirements
The specific degree requirements in place during Rankin’s time at Frostburg directly influence the expected duration of his studies. Knowing the required coursework and credit hours for his chosen field provides a framework for estimating his potential graduation year, assuming a standard progression through the program. Changes in curriculum over time must be considered to ensure the applied standards are relevant to the period of his enrollment.
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Record-Keeping Practices
The methods employed by Frostburg State University for maintaining student records during the relevant era impact the accessibility and reliability of graduation information. Understanding whether records were meticulously kept, digitally archived, or subject to loss or damage is crucial for assessing the likelihood of finding definitive proof of graduation. Knowing the archival practices dictates where and how to search for relevant information.
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Faculty and Academic Staff
The presence and contributions of specific faculty and academic staff during Rankin’s time can provide valuable contextual clues. University historians or archivists may possess knowledge of faculty members who taught Rankin’s courses or mentored him. These individuals might have kept records or shared anecdotes that shed light on his academic progress and potential graduation timeframe.
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Significant Events and Disruptions
Major events in the university’s history, such as fires, wars, or economic depressions, could have affected student enrollment, graduation rates, or record preservation. Awareness of such events is crucial for interpreting potential gaps or inconsistencies in available documentation. Significant disruptions may have caused delays in graduation or altered the academic calendar, impacting Rankin’s expected graduation year.
By understanding the historical context of Frostburg State University during the relevant period, researchers can more effectively navigate available records and make informed inferences regarding William Alexander Rankin’s graduation year. This historical perspective provides a critical framework for interpreting existing data and overcoming potential obstacles in the search for definitive proof of graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding William Alexander Rankin’s Graduation from Frostburg State University
The following questions address common inquiries surrounding the determination of William Alexander Rankin’s graduation year from Frostburg State University in Maryland. These answers are intended to provide clarity and guide further research.
Question 1: Why is it important to determine William Alexander Rankin’s graduation year from Frostburg?
Determining the graduation year provides essential context for understanding his academic background and subsequent life trajectory. It allows for accurate placement within the university’s historical timeline and can facilitate connections with alumni from the same graduating class. Additionally, it aids in genealogical research and historical record-keeping.
Question 2: What are the primary sources for finding this information?
The primary sources include Frostburg State University’s official records, such as student transcripts, alumni directories, commencement programs, and historical archives. These resources, if available and accurately maintained, hold the most reliable data pertaining to student enrollment and degree conferrals.
Question 3: What if official university records are incomplete or unavailable?
In cases where official records are lacking, secondary sources such as biographical accounts of William Alexander Rankin, genealogical databases, and historical society records may provide clues or supporting evidence. However, information from these sources should be carefully vetted for accuracy.
Question 4: How can biographical information help determine the graduation year?
Biographical accounts may contain information regarding Rankin’s age when entering a profession, his involvement in specific activities during his time at Frostburg, or references to his family history. These details can be used to estimate the graduation year or narrow the timeframe under investigation.
Question 5: What role does the university’s historical context play in this search?
Understanding Frostburg State University’s curriculum, record-keeping practices, and significant historical events during the relevant period is crucial for interpreting available records and making informed inferences. Changes in degree requirements, disruptions due to wars or economic downturns, and the presence of key faculty members can all influence the search for the graduation year.
Question 6: What are the limitations in determining the exact graduation year?
Limitations include the potential for incomplete or lost records, inaccurate biographical information, and the absence of readily accessible alumni directories. Additionally, changes in university policies and record-keeping practices over time can complicate the search process. Therefore, it is important to acknowledge the possibility of uncertainty, even after a thorough investigation.
In conclusion, pinpointing the precise graduation year of William Alexander Rankin requires a multifaceted approach, utilizing both primary and secondary sources, while acknowledging the potential limitations inherent in historical research. A thorough and systematic investigation will increase the likelihood of achieving an accurate determination.
This concludes the FAQ section. Further research into Frostburg State University’s archives and related biographical materials is recommended.
Tips for Determining William Alexander Rankin’s Graduation Year
The following guidance offers a structured approach for efficiently locating William Alexander Rankin’s graduation year from Frostburg State University in Maryland. Adherence to these recommendations will optimize the research process.
Tip 1: Prioritize Frostburg State University Archives.
The University’s archives represent the most authoritative source. Initiate the search here, specifically targeting student transcripts, alumni directories, and commencement programs. Contact the university archivist for assistance in navigating these resources.
Tip 2: Cross-Reference with Alumni Directories.
If available, examine alumni directories for the period relevant to Rankin’s attendance. These directories may explicitly list graduation years. Note that older directories might be less comprehensive and require corroboration with other sources.
Tip 3: Analyze Commencement Programs Systematically.
Review commencement programs for each potential graduation year. These programs provide a definitive list of graduates. Ensure thoroughness, as misidentification or misinterpretation of names can lead to errors.
Tip 4: Scrutinize Biographical Accounts.
If biographical information exists, analyze it carefully for clues related to his education, professional career, and family history. These details can provide context for estimating his graduation year. Verify biographical details against other reliable sources.
Tip 5: Consider University Historical Context.
Research Frostburg State University’s history during the period of Rankin’s attendance. Understanding curriculum changes, record-keeping practices, and significant historical events can aid in interpreting available data. Consult university historians for insights.
Tip 6: Document All Sources Meticulously.
Maintain detailed records of all sources consulted, including website URLs, archival locations, and bibliographic citations. This practice ensures transparency and facilitates verification of findings. It also aids in avoiding repetition of searches.
Tip 7: Employ a Conservative Approach to Inferences.
If the exact graduation year remains elusive, exercise caution when drawing inferences. Clearly articulate the rationale behind any estimations and acknowledge the limitations of the available evidence. Present all findings with appropriate caveats.
Successful determination of William Alexander Rankin’s graduation year necessitates a systematic, diligent, and meticulous approach. Prioritizing primary sources and exercising caution in drawing conclusions are crucial for achieving an accurate result.
The aforementioned tips serve as a framework for conducting effective historical research, applicable not only to this specific case but also to broader investigations into academic records and biographical details.
Conclusion
The comprehensive exploration has underscored the multifaceted approach required to ascertain when William Alexander Rankin graduated from Frostburg State University in Maryland. The investigation highlights the reliance on primary sources, such as university archives, alumni directories, and commencement programs, while acknowledging the potential for incomplete or unavailable records. The utility of biographical information and the importance of contextualizing the search within the university’s historical framework have also been emphasized.
The definitive determination of when William Alexander Rankin graduated from Frostburg State University in Maryland remains subject to the accessibility and completeness of surviving institutional records and corroborating biographical evidence. Further diligent research within relevant archives is encouraged to resolve this historical inquiry and contribute to a more complete understanding of Rankin’s life and academic achievements.
