The Take-Over Generation
In 1962, Life published a special edition of its magazine called “The Take-Over Generation.” This featured the “100 most promising young professionals in the midcentury,” and focused on innovation, creative thinking, and cutting edge ideas. Youth, leadership qualities, and determination were all greatly admired during this time, and Life Magazine set out to recognize those upcoming movers and shakers in business, politics, and science.
The University of Detroit recognized the dynamics of the times too. Where would these bright stars come from anyway? Universities were the fertile ground from which these leaders emerged, and U of D was part of this movement.
In 1963, the first pages of the Tower Yearbook declared U of D’s own part in the making of the Take-Over Generation. A focus not only on gaining a degree, but on learning innovative ways of expressing what students learn was the theme for this year. The idea wasn’t about making money; it was about making changes, and helping to make the world a better place. Back then, we had scientific discoveries to draw from, advances in engineering techniques to experiment with, and conceptual thinking research to spur creativity. The future for the student in 1963 was exciting, open, and limited only by the time it took to announce the next big thing to offer to the world. Students graduating into the social world at this time went on to help bring about the advancements in medicine, technology, and critical thinking we see in the world now.
1963 Tower Yearbook, Image 9
The Take-Over Generation didn’t just “take over,” they inspired the generations that followed to continue in their footsteps. Come take a look at U of D 50 years ago and, and spend some time with those shining faces poised to do great things!
