william daily was elected a trustee of indiana university on february 10, 1853, and was seated on july 30, 1853. his resignation of the post was accepted by the board of trustees on august 2, 1853. he had served for one and a half days. his place was taken by cyrus l. dunham. the current indiana university president at the time, alfred ryors, resigned on august 3, 1853, and william daily was elected the third president of indiana university that same day.