Hall of Honor
Chamberlain served as Houghton’s fourth president from 1976 through 2006. During his tenure, he oversaw the erection of numerous campus buildings including the Center for the Arts, the Chamberlain Center, Stevens Art Studios, Nielsen Physical Education Center, several town homes, and a dormitory.
A former college athlete, Chamberlain was a supportive and outspoken fan of Houghton’s intercollegiate athletics teams. In spite of having the typical full president’s schedule, he made time to attend athletics events on a regular basis.
“He cheered enthusiastically, knew players by name and often kept track of statistics in the stands,” said Athletics Director Skip Lord. “In particular, I remember him traveling all the way to Marian, Indiana one year to support my team in the NCCAA Volleyball National Tournament.”
Chamberlain enjoys watching sports and remains an active sportsman himself. He continues to work out and play racquetball to this day.
In recognition of his contributions, Chamberlain received a Doctor of Humane Letters from both Huntington College in 2000 and Houghton College in 2001. He was named one of the 50 most outstanding alumni from the California State University at Los Angeles where he earned his Master’s Degree. Chamberlain earned a Doctor of Education from the University of Southern California in 1967.
Upon retirement, Chamberlain has gone on to fill numerous positions as a member of the Board of Directors for the Wesleyan Bible Conference Association in Brooksville, Florida, preaching assistant at the Brooksville Wesleyan Church, and a member of the Board of World Hope International.
He and his wife Joyce have seven children, 22 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
