BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Western Kentucky University is dedicating an on-campus space to honor the life and legacy of a former president. 

Paul L. Garrett served as WKU's second president. Now, his legacy is marked by a water fountain and gazebo at the site of the former Garrett Conference Center.

His grandson, Pete Garrett, was one of nine relatives at the dedication and spoke on behalf of the family.

“Continuing heritage of the family is happening here right now, so we’re fortunate," he said. 

Paul served as president from 1937 through 1955, when the school was known as the Western Kentucky State Teachers College. He led the school out of the Great Depression, through World War II and the post-war era.

Virginia Garrett was also responsible for planting more than 1,000 shrubs on campus during the spring of 1955 and more than 100 trees during the following years.

“We knew we had to name something in his honor, so the opportunity to honor both Garretts was a tremendous opportunity," said WKU President Timothy Caboni. 

One of his most significant accomplishments was housing veterans on campus after the war ended, in what would become known as "Vet Village."

He also oversaw the construction of three new residence halls: McLean, East and North.

“It’s a very amazing thing to witness for me," Pete Garrett said. 

It’s part of WKU’s Hilltop Restoration Project to make campus more accessible, and Caboni added it’s a chance to beautify WKU’s campus while also honoring those who made these projects possible.

“I stand on the shoulders of nine remarkable men, and we make sure we honor their contributions, no matter how long ago they were," Caboni said.