Ephraim Williams

Founder of the college. He led his troops to their deaths near Lake George, New York during the French and Indian War, mostly because he failed to send out a scout. He left money for a "free school" (what's the tuition? 28 thousand now? more like 40 thousand a year?). His family took their time implementing his wish until 1793 when West College was actually built.

The motto on the Williams College seal is translated as, "Through the generosity of Ephraim Williams, armsbearer."

See more at the Williams College archives or also the wikipedia entry.