After World War II was over, the Academy experienced a tremendous period of growth under the leadership of Joseph S. Vandiver. He had already established Mississippi Delta Community College, and then had served for ten years as the Mississippi State Superintendent of Education. When he came to the Academy in the Fall of 1945, only 62 students were enrolled. In just five years, there would be 100 more.
As a result, Gage Hall was built in 1948, and because of the fire of 1924, it was made of fireproof materials: brick and steel and concrete. Like Redus Hall, it was named for a Chairman of the Board of Trustees: Judge Robert D. Gage, who served in that capacity from 1924 until 1953.
Dr. David F. Gruchy assumed the Academy’s presidency in July of 1955. He had degrees from LSU and Colorado State, and earned his PhD from the University of Michigan in 1955. He would retain the presidency until June of 1966. Under his leadership the student body grew to 192.
In spite of his high level of scholarship, Dr. Gruchy was very much a hands-on administrator, and very interested in athletics. During his tenure, the new Gymnasium was completed, and named for Col. Kennedy. He also hired two men who would have long careers at the Academy.
Charles Taylor
Sammie Etheridge
Charles Taylor came to the Academy in 1956 as a physical education director. Over the years, he would continue to serve as track coach and as social science teacher. His gift for administration was quickly recognized, and for over 20 years he served as the Academy’s principal.
Dr. Gruchy also hired Sammie Ethridge in 1957. During his over fifty years of service at the Academy, his keen interest in athletics led him to coach football, tennis, and golf. In the classroom, he taught biology and physics, and was legendary for his students’ demonstrations of rocketry.
