David Carlisle Humphreys was dean of the engineering school at Washington and Lee University at the time of the founding of Omicron Delta Kappa. He served in that role from 1912 until the time of his death in 1921. Before that time, he was the dean of the School of Applied Science at W&L.
Humphreys was an 1878 alumnus of the university. Prior to enrolling, he as an assistant draughtsman on the Valley Railroad. After graduation, he taught for a year at the McDonough School and then served in the Army Engineers. He returned to Washington and Lee in 1885 as a faculty member.
In addition to his service to the university, Humphrey was active in local politics (as a Democrat), served as secretary of the local school board, and was a deacon of the Lexington Presbyterian Church.
Sources
Nichols, Michael. (2014). The Laurel Crowned Circle: Omicron Delta Kappa and 100 Years of Leadership. Omicron Delta Kappa. Lexington, Va.
Tyler, Lyon G. Men of Mark in Virginia: Ideals of American Life.
