Dr. John Arthur Nelson’s guidance and supervision resulted in Central’s selection as one of the top ten schools in the nation during his tenure as principal from 1944 to 1968. During that same time, some Ivy League schools waived entrance exams for Central graduates. J. Arthur believed that every student was entitled to a fine education. He was proud of his teachers and adroit at selecting them. He was instrumental in setting up program allowing students to earn college credit for demonstrated skills. He received awards and honors from many educational organizations including an honorary doctorate from his alma mater, Midland Lutheran College.
J. Arthur passed away in 1973 at the age of 73.