Noah Noel Langdale Jr. served as president of Georgia State University from 1957 to 1988.
During Langdale's 31 years as president, Georgia State College grew to become Georgia State University. Its student population went from 5,000 students with only one degree program to more than 20,000 students and over 200 programs. The school expanded the campus' facilities from only two buildings to many blocks of buildings in downtown Atlanta.
During his tenure, the school was transformed from a racially segregated institution to the most diverse institution in the University System of Georgia. He was known throughout Georgia and the region as an eloquent orator.
Langdale increased funding for Georgia State, growing the university’s budget of $1.9 million to $118.6 million.
The university also possessed a thriving law school, a nationally ranked business school and a reputation as a leader in urban public affairs. On July 1, 1987, Langdale assumed special responsibilities for the Chancellor.
Langdale, a native of Valdosta, was captain of the 1936 State Champion Valdosta High Wildcats. He graduated from the University of Alabama where he played tackle on the Crimson Tide varsity squad. During his years at Alabama, Langdale was a member of Phi Beta Kappa, Omicron Delta Kappa, Delta Chi and the Jasons Society. He was awarded the Service Trophy by his fellow students for the class year 1940-41.
At 6' 1", 235 pounds, Langdale was a starting tackle on the Alabama team that defeated Texas A&M in the Cotton Bowl in 1941. He became line coach of the 1942 Alabama team that defeated Boston College in the Orange Bowl. After the 1942 season, Langdale joined the U.S. Navy and, among other assignments, served a stint in the Pacific during World War II.
He received degrees from the Harvard University School of Law and Harvard Business School, and he practiced law in Georgia for seven years. He also was a department chairman at Valdosta State College and received an honorary doctorate from the University of Alabama in 1957.
In 2005, Langdale received the Paul W. Bryant Alumni-Athlete Award. The award recognizes former athletes whose accomplishments since leaving the University are outstanding based on character, contributions to society, professional achievement and service.
Langdale died at Piedmont Hospital Feb. 23, 2008. He was 87 years old.