Russell Nichols was inaugurated as Hanover's 14th president on September 26, 1987. He initiated actions to improve the Hanover experience for students both inside and outside the classroom. The number of full-time faculty was increased over a five-year period from 72 to 94, lowering the student-teacher ratio and allowing for more independent research and study. Six new academic majors were added.
In terms of amenities, students enjoyed a direct-dial telephone in each dorm room, ending years of having a campus operator direct all calls. More significantly, academic scholarships were increased for incoming and returning students.
In 1995 the $11 million Horner Health and Recreation Center was opened; it was named for the president emeritus and his wife.
=== 21st century ===
In 2000, a $23 million Science Center was dedicated, which now houses all of the college's natural sciences in the same facility.
In May 2006, Nichols announced his plans to retire at the conclusion of the 2007 academic year. His accomplishments …
