Mrs. James G. (Anna Clute) Newcomb, the donor of Newcomb Hall, dedicated in 1956 as a residence for 137 women, came into the history of Occidental College with a host of recognitions received in her home state of New York and in the Pasadena community where she later lived.

A native of Schenectady, New York, she graduated from Wellesley College and attended New York University of Law. As a young woman she became active in political and club affairs, an interest that led to becoming president of the New York State Federation of Women's Clubs. Among the many assignments that came her way, she accepted the chairmanship of the Women's Division, National Defense Council during World War I. She became an organizer of the Women's State Republican Club of New York. Women's suffrage and child welfare legislation were among causes that received her attention.

Mrs. Newcomb and her husband, a founder of Standard Oil Company of New Jersey, wintered for many years in Pasadena, where after his death she made her home, and as in New York, gave herself unstintingly to civic and charitable organizations. She was co-founder and first president of the Pasadena Women's City Club, president of the Pasadena Symphony Association, and a member of the board of directors of numerous other bodies devoted to learning and culture. For her notable service to the city she was widely honored.

Along with her Pasadena activities, Occidental College became a major outlet for Mrs. Newcomb's vitality and desire to serve. She was elected to the Board of Trustees in 1942 and served faithfully until her death in 1961. As a trustee she provided wise counsel and was a generous financial supporter. She also provided gracious hospitality to campus groups through entertaining in her home at 141 North Grand Avenue, Pasadena. Particularly memorable were the annual teas she gave for Occidental's senior women students. On the campus she showed a keen interest in student activities, especially music. The well-being of Occidental was manifest through her actions over many years. She never wavered in her affection for the College.

By Jean Paule