1920s Columbia University Graduate Portrait

This glass negative captures a Columbia University graduate from the early 1920s, a time when higher education was becoming increasingly accessible and influential in American society. Columbia University, established in 1754, was a leading institution for higher learning located in New York City. The early 20th century marked a significant period for Columbia, where it expanded its academic programs, reaching a diverse student body and adapting to the social changes of the era. Graduates from this period played essential roles in shaping modern thought, science, and culture.

Produced by the Bain News Service, a renowned photo agency, this photograph is part of a larger collection that documented key figures and events of the time. The Bain News Service was known for its extensive coverage of news and important figures, providing a visual record that informs us about the past. This image not only showcases an individual graduate but also reflects the broader trends in education and society, highlighting the importance of education in an era characterized by innovation and change. Such photographs are vital in understanding the historical context of academic institutions and the individuals who shaped them.