Kenneth A. Megill Papers

Collection

Identifier: Ms Coll. 010

Scope and Content

This collection documents some of Dr. Megill's political interests as well as his philosophical outlook. Also included are materials on his tenure case and correspondence he received while he was on the faculty.

Dates

Creation: 1967-1973

Creator

Megill, Kenneth A., 1939- (Person)

Access

University Archives collections are available for research. Portions of the collections may be restricted due to the requirements of applicable state and federal laws, including but not limited to FERPA and HIPAA, and in accordance with best practices as defined by the Society of American Archivists.

Biographical/Historical Note

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Kenneth A. Megill was a faculty member of the Department of Philosophy from 1967 through the Spring of 1973. Dr. Megill's controversial views on the structure, purpose, and role of the university, as well as his political activism, prompted a motion for his dismissal in the Florida Senate in 1969. In 1971, President O'Connell rejected a recommendation by the Philosophy Department for Dr. Megill's tenure promotion and he was subsequently denied tenure by the Board of Regents. In June of 1972 Dr. Megill was dismissed by O'Connell on the grounds of "unprofessional behavior."

Dr. Megill was the first Florida faculty member to hold a National Endowment for the Humanities Fellowship and was the author of The New Democratic Theory (1970). He was active in the anti-war and civil rights movements and a supporter of several left student groups. His unsuccessful struggle for tenure--based on his excellent academic record--was a key factor in the creation of the United Faculty of Florida of which Dr. Megill served as President.