On the morning of Saturday, June 4, 1927, 4,000 people gathered in the courtyard in front of the Harvard Business School's new library for the dedication of the still partially unfinished campus. The bare look of the new buildings had been softened by parallel rows of newly planted elms, stretching from the library to the river. The effect of the trees had been reinforced by a small thicket of potted plants which lined the base of the temporary platforms in front of the library.

Just inside the library's entrance, a freshly cast bronze tablet hung on the otherwise bare walls of the cavernous lobby. The inscription on the tablet had been composed by President Lowell: "This group of buildings dedicated on June 4, 1927, and an endowment therefore were given by George Fisher Baker, banker and philanthropist, to promote knowledge and integrity in the art of finance, industry, and commerce, objects doubly advanced by his generous gift and by his lifelong example."

Baker himself—now 87 years old, and in declining health—had fallen ill earlier in the spring, and doubts arose as to whether he could attend the dedication. But he rallied, and at the appointed time in the ceremony, moved slowly to the microphone.

"Mr. President and Fellows," Baker began, "ladies and gentlemen. First, I want to thank you for this kind and ever-to-be-remembered reception. These buildings have turned out so unexpectedly fine that I must extend congratulations to you. I hope and believe that this school is to be the standard for all others, but it must be remembered always that the standard of excellence which must be maintained comes not simply from the outside of the buildings, but from the work and training on the inside."