Marvin S.Pittman had a vision that sometimes appeared to be 'outside the box.' He introduced new and innovative programs in education, such as the zone plan for teacher training, and theories for the consolidation of schools. He saw education as the tool needed to give power to the people. Education was Pittman's tool to bring the poor farm boy from the cotton fields into the classroom. He was an ethical, moral, scholarly and forthright individual. He began his administration at what is now known as Georgia Southern University in 1934 when he became president. He introduced 'faculty organization, ' schools of instruction, and an expanded curriculum. His legacy reflects his knowledge that college is more than just academics. He brought intellectual and cultural entertainment to enhance student's educational experience. Pittman believed that all people had an equal opportunity to be educated. He served during the difficult years of the Depression and World War II, and at the time when segregationist, Eugene Talmadge was governor of Georgia. The power of politics is seen when Talmadge fired Pittman because of political differences.
