Joseph A. Franklin began as a student at Indiana University in 1922. Following his 1927 graduation with a degree in finance, Franklin remained an employee of the University's fiscal offices for the entirety of his professional career during which he was appointed University treasurer (1946-1971), vice president (1948-1971), and Fiscal Counsel to the President (1971-1975). Franklin was active in various professional, community, and service organizations including Acacia Fraternity, Church of Christ, Lions Club, Myasthenia Gravis Foundation, Riley Memorial Association, and the United Fund. This collection primarily holds papers relating to Franklin's service activities and includes correspondence, invitations, financial records, publications, and minutes.