Homer A. Vilas devoted much of his life to the welfare of St. Lawrence University. He graduated from SLU in 1913 and immediately took an interest in improving his alma mater. He joined the Board of Trustees in 1929 and served as board president from 1955-68. His career in investment banking helped the trustees guide the university through one of its most prolific building periods during his chairmanship, including the construction of the building that bears his name. Vilas Hall opened in 1965 and served as the center of the university's administrative functions, including the president's office, deans, the registrar, university communications, human resources, and office services.