Feb. 9, 2005--Elbert N. Carvel, 94, of Laurel, died Feb. 6 at his home.

A long-time friend and benefactor of the University, Mr. Carvel served on UD’s Board of Trustees from 1945-85 and was vice chairman from 1972-85.

On Oct. 29, 2004, Mr. Carvel and members of his family joined UD administrators and Delaware elected officials at a groundbreaking ceremony for UD’s new 24,000-square-foot Elbert N. Carvel Research and Education Center in Georgetown. Mr. Carvel and his wife, Ann, donated $2 million toward the building of the state-of-the-art facility just north of Georgetown. At that ceremony, President David P. Roselle said, “There are numerous reasons to celebrate today, but probably the most important is to honor two individuals, Ann and Bert Carvel, whose lifelong commitment to both private enterprise and entrepreneurship, combined with public service and philanthropy, has significantly improved the quality of life for all Delawareans."

In an article in the Feb. 8, Wilmington News Journal, Carol Hoffecker, Richards Professor Emerita of History, is quoted: “I think Delaware has lost a very gallant man who was ahead of his time, who was concerned for what was best for all the people of Delaware.”

Mr. Carvel entered Delaware politics in 1944 as lieutenant governor and served as governor from 1949-53 and 1961-65. Among the accomplishments during his tenures in office are the building of the first span of the Delaware Memorial Bridge, developing numerous roads and highways, establishing the Public Service Commission and initiating the State Development Department.

A public memorial service will be held at a later date.