Ralph P. Hoagland Finally Receives Degree; Began Task 35 Years Ago

Ralph Pratt Hoagland, Jr., unlike most graduating seniors, didn't have to worry about a job when he picked up his diploma today; his main job was getting enough Commencement tickets.

Hoagland already owns a drug store and a restaurant, so he was able to turn full attention to the problem of afternoon seating for his wife, six children and--University Hall officials are really generous--his three grandchildren.

Hoagland entered Harvard in the fall of 1918 with the rest of the class of 1922. But after a successful first year he had to leave college as a sophomore for a lack of funds.

He worked for the last thirty years, attending his 25th reunion. He finally returned last year, passing his science requirement with Geology 1. This year he took a full four course load, and received a degree in history.