Caledonia Argus

Former Gov. Elmer L. Andersen to sign new book at special events

Posted: 5/25/04

At age 94 former Gov. Elmer L. Andersen has written his third book. This one is titled I Trust to be Believed: Speeches and Reflections by Elmer L. Andersen.

Throughout a long life of public service, Andersen, publisher emeritus of ECM Publishers, has brought an unusual blend of business acumen, liberal ideals and civic mindedness to the task of making Minnesota a better place to live.

A collection of his speeches has been gathered within the pages of this book -- the issues range from education to health care, from the environment to welfare reform -- and each speech is accompanied by Gov. Andersenís recent comments on the same enduring themes. The result is a unique personal dialogue between past and present, in the course of which a portrait of Andersenís unparalleled life of public service emerges, and alongside of it, a touching backward glance across the terrain of Minnesotaís recent history.

Andersenís enthusiasm and humor are matched by his no-nonsense awareness of the hard work and sacrifice required by citizens, business and government to sustain a viable community, and extend its reach.

Upcoming events to unveil his book include a tea and reading from 2-4 p.m. Saturday, May 15 at the St. Anthony Park Library. Andersen will also participate in a reading and signing from 7-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 26 at the Barnes & Noble galleria. On Wednesday, July 14, from 2-3:30 p.m., he will be at a reading and signing at the Ridgedale Library. Lori Studevant, who edited the book, will read and Gov. Andersen will sign copies.

The book is published by Nodin Press, Minneapolis, and will cost $17.

As long-time president of H.B. Fuller, Elmer L. Andersen made the firm a model of corporate responsibility to employees and their families. He was elected to the Minnesota Legislature in 1949, and in 1960 he became governor of the state. He was defeated two years later by the smallest margin in Minnesota history -- 91 votes -- and returned to the helm of H.B. Fuller.

Attracted by the role that newspapers play in community life, Andersen stepped down from his post at Fuller in 1974, and soon afterward purchased two Princeton, Minnesota weekly newspapers. His publishing corporation, ECM, now puts out 25 publications.

In the midst of these varied commitments and responsibilities, Andersen has found time to operate an award-winning dairy farm with his wife Eleanor, pursue an avid interest in rare books, lend his support to numerous civic and environmental projects and participate energetically in the larger life of the community.

He has served as chairman of the Board of Regents of the University of Minnesota, his alma mater, and president of the University Foundation. In recognition of his tireless commitment to service, the University of Minnesota in 1999 named its newest library in his honor, and the State of Minnesota has chosen to commemorate him by putting his name on a new Human Services building.

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