George McDonald McConkey first became a member of the faculty of this University in 1911 while he was completing the requirements for the degree B.A.E. In 1914, upon earning the degree, he was promoted from Instructor to Assistant Professor of Architecture.

In 1924 he became Associate Professor, and four years later Professor. He brought to his teaching a wealth of practical experience in his chosen field. As a high school student in Springfield, Ohio (1901-4), he was employed part time as a draftsman in an architect's office. From 1905 to 1909 he was an engineering draftsman for the Detroit River Tunnel Company. He designed bridges for the Michigan Central Railway Company, and was a special investigator for the Detroit Edison Company in its construction division.

He also practiced architecture in Ann Arbor under the firm name of Rousseau and McConkey for a period while he was teaching at the University. Professor McConkey was indefatigable in his efforts to establish a housing code for the state of Michigan, and in 1936-37 wrote much of the code that later became law.

His colleagues elected him to numerous offices, both in the Michigan Society of Architects and the American Institute of Architects. His administrative capacities were recognized in the University by appointment to the Executive Committee of his College and by his election to the University Council.

The Regents of the University of Michigan acknowledge with profound thanks Professor McConkey's forty-five years of distinguished service to the University and confer upon him the title Professor Emeritus of Architecture.