Harry R. Trusler Hall

Honoree

Harry R. Trusler came to the University of Florida from Stetson University at the request of Albert Farrah, the first dean of UF’s law school. Trusler became one of the founding faculty members of UF’s College of Law and taught for six years before being appointed dean in 1915 at the age of 33. During Tusler's three-decades of service as dean, the University experienced drastic social changes.

Trusler was accustomed to women in the university setting after having taught at Stetson University, which admitted women since its founding in 1900. However, at that time, the State University System was segregated into a school for white males, the University of Florida; a school for white females, Florida State College for Women in Tallahassee (now Florida State University); and a school for African Americans, Florida A&M also in Tallahassee.

Trusler’s co-educational experience motivated him to take a stand and advocate the rights of women. In his 1920 Biennial Report to the president and Board of Control, he stated, “The college, therefore, recommends that the admission of women to the State Law School be brought to the attention of the Legislature, believing that there is no just reason for refusing equal opportunities to women for legal education.”

Advocates of co-education saw progress in 1925 when the Florida Legislature passed a law allowing women to attend UF’s College of Law if their course of interest was not offered at any other institution. Finally, after many years of dedication, the Florida Legislature legalized co-education in 1947, the last year that Trusler served as dean.

Facility History

Designed by Guy Fulton, Trusler Hall was built along with East, Graham, Hume, Simpson, Rawlings and Jennings Halls in a project totaling $8.5 million. Trusler Hall is part of the Graham/Lakeside Residence Area. This residence area features a volleyball pit, large brick barbecue pit, swimming pool, dining area and a pond retreat.

Incoming first-year students can request assignment to the Leader/Scholar Program in Trusler. This program offers additional programming and support for academic and life-skills areas. Sections of First Year Florida, a course for freshmen, are taught at Trusler for students in the Leader/Scholar Program.