Clifford Hardin seated at a desk reviewing documents.

                Clifford Morris Hardin assumed the Chancellorship at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 1954, making him the youngest chancellor in the history of the University. Massive changes for the University filled his time as chancellor, including an expansion of the physical campus, an increase in faculty pay, and a merger with the Municipal University of Omaha.

                In 1968, President Richard Nixon appointed Hardin to the position of Secretary of Agriculture. Upon entering the position, Hardin’s biggest concern was giving farmers a greater share in American prosperity. He established the Food and Nutrition Service Program, created the 1970 Farm Bill, and was dedicated to fighting poverty and malnutrition not only in America, but all over the world (U. S. Agriculture, “Secretary Hardin Proposes Establishment of Food and Nutrition Service”).

                After three years serving as Secretary, Hardin stepped down and assumed the position of the Vice Chancellorship at Ralston-Purina, allowing Earl Butz to become the new Secretary of Agriculture. After being the Secretary of Agriculture, Hardin was drawn to the research-oriented company and the continued involvement in agriculture.

                Hardin retired from Ralston-Purina in 1980. Despite his retirement he remained active in government and agriculture work. He retired from all boards and memberships in 1985, but continued to involve himself in research relating to the growth of the federal government and its impact on business.

                He was born in Knightstown, Indiana on October 9, 1915. In 1939 he married Martha Love Wood and together they had five children.  On April 4, 2010, Clifford Hardin passed away in his home in Lincoln, Nebraska of renal failure and congestive heart failure at 94 years old (Sullivan).

Clifford Hardin stands in foront of a collection of tobacco pipes.

Sources

        Agriculture, United States Department of. Secretary Hardin Proposes Establishment of Food and Nutrition Service. Washington: HP, ASCUNL, 1969. Print.

       Sullivan, Patricia. "Clifford Hardin, 94, dies; agriculture chief under Nixon." 6 April 2010. The Washington Post.
30 Januaray 2015. <http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/04/05/AR201004054409.html>.