In August 1969 , Singletary became president of the University of Kentucky . Assuming his executive responsibilities during a period of campus turmoil kindled by student protest against the Vietnam War , and culminating on the UK campus following the Kent State shootings in May 1970 . Singletary 's dispassionate yet firm approach to dealing with the conflict , in time effectively restored calm to the campus and prevented a potentially incendiary situation from spinning out of control . Throughout his term Singletary listened attentively to student concerns and encouraged responsible student participation in university affairs . Early in his administration student representation on the Board of Trustees was initiated , and student membership in the University Senate was increased . As a result , many causes of student discontent were eradicated , and a mutuality of trust and respect between students and administrators developed and grew during the Singletary years
Kent State shootings
Kent State shootings
Otis A. Singletary