Awards

Honorary Degree - 1931

LL.D.

Doctor of Laws

Bloomington, Indiana

Presenter: William Lowe Bryan

About Hugh McKennan Landon

Hugh McKennan Landon graduated from Harvard in 1892. A banker and true businessman, Landon was also an incredible philanthropist who was instrumental in shaping the future of Indiana University’s School of Medicine. He devoted his financial resources and time for civic betterment and public service. While numerous organizations and individuals benefitted from his quiet behind-the-scenes generosity, Landon’s greatest influence was serving as president of the James Whitcomb Riley Memorial Association (now the Riley Children’s Foundation) from its very beginning in 1921 until he passed away in 1947.

Landon began his career at the Manufacturers Natural Gas Company; over the next decade, he served in a variety of roles including treasurer, and vice president. In 1902, he transitioned to the Indianapolis Water Company where he served as vice-president from 1909-1912. Landon then joined the Fletcher Trust Company (now J.P. Morgan Chase) serving as vice president, and chairman of the board. Landon later served as director and president of the Armstrong-Landon Company in Kokomo.

Throughout his successful career, Landon’s financial support rendered the future of Indiana University’s School of Medicine secure even before the establishment of the Riley Memorial Association in 1921. During World War I, Landon was one of the largest donors for the Riley Hospital building fund and his support helped finance the construction of the new Indiana University School of Medicine building. Now known as Emerson Hall, the building’s opening in 1919 provided desperately needed medical student education during a significant moment in history. Years of development and growth of the foundation and medical campus followed. In 1931, Landon served as chair of IU’s School of Medicine’s first research committee that supported projects for both the school and hospital.

Indiana University awards honorary degrees to individuals who have demonstrated excellence in scholarship or creative activity, in professional achievement, in public service, or an unequivocal commitment to Indiana University. Landon received this exceptional award in 1931, in recognition and honor of his extensive contributions, both financially and professionally. His support provided the university an opportunity to significantly advance in the field of medicine.