Thomas Chase (educator)

Thomas Chase (born August 27, 1827, Worcester, Massachusetts; died October 5, 1892, Providence, Rhode Island) was an American educator and classical scholar. He served as the first president of Haverford College from 1875 to 1886.

Chase graduated from Harvard University in 1848, where he was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. He then studied at the University of Berlin. Upon his return to the United States, he became a professor of classical literature at Haverford College in 1855. He remained in this role until his appointment as president.

During his tenure as president of Haverford, Chase focused on strengthening the college's academic reputation and financial stability. He was instrumental in developing the curriculum and expanding the faculty. He resigned the presidency in 1886 but continued to teach at Haverford until his death.

Chase was a respected scholar of classical literature and authored several textbooks, including editions of Livy, Tacitus, and Cicero. He was also actively involved in the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers).