Immediately following World War II and as the Cold War was beginning, Marian “Smitty” Smith became the first female mechanical engineering graduate at Michigan Tech. The year was 1948.
Seventy-five years later, Marian Smith Scott is 95 years old living in Gaylord, MI.
After completing junior college in 1946, Marian chose to continue her education at Michigan Tech. Given her strength in math, she thought engineering was a good path for her. “I understood that engineering required a lot of math, so I decided on mechanical,” she said. “I have to admit… I really didn’t know what engineering was!”
When Marian Smith started at Tech, she recalls there being around 400 students—only 20 of whom were women. Enrollment blossomed after World War II bringing the total to 1,789 students at the Houghton branch (and 384 in Sault Ste. Marie). While there were few women before her who graduated with different degrees, only three others were pursuing mechanical engineering. Since they were younger than her, Marian, who was well known by the nickname “Smitty”, rarely had any other women in her classes. Despite facing challenges and discrimination during her time as a student, Marian never lost sight of her goal.
One professor was particularly challenging, believing that women didn’t belong in engineering. As Marian explained, “I distinctly remember our professor giving us a quiz with three questions. I got the final answer correct but forgot to do the last step on the third question. The guy next to me didn’t even answer it, and he got a better score than me. That really irked me! I still ended up with a B in the class. I should have had an A, but he couldn’t do anything to give me less than a B and that made me happy.”
Having 40 hours of class each week and homework didn’t leave much time for hobbies, but “Smitty” still managed to have some fun. A member of Alpha Phi Omega, there were many formal parties and dances, so she was always busy sewing another new dress. She fondly recalls watching a young man sprint towards her from across campus to ask her to go on a date with him to a dance that was a month away. “There weren’t many women there. You had to get your dates early!” She also met her future husband Bill Scott at Tech, who graduated at the same time with the same degree. Three months after graduation, the two were engaged.
After graduating from Tech, Scott started her career at General Motors. She later became an editor for Design News—a technical magazine. After Design News moved to Denver, Scott secured a job at Bendix (now known as Allied Signal, Inc.) where she became the first female to have a supervisor role outside of the factory. “It might have been a big deal,” she said, “but nobody made anything of it. They didn’t give me much more money!”
“When I got out of school, people didn’t really believe that I had an engineering degree,” Scott said when asked about the public perception of a woman in engineering at the time. “People would still ask me silly questions like what you would get in 12th grade physics. Many of the employers were skeptical, which wasn’t very fair.” She continued, “I think some people thought I had two heads. But I got a job, and I did the job.”
Marian “Smitty” Scott encourages all women in engineering to be confident and know that they are as good and as capable as the men in the same field.
“I’ve always felt my decision to go to Michigan Tech was a good one,” she said. “I went back for my 50th reunion in 1998, and I saw the improvements they made. I wished I were going to school then! It was, and is, a very good school.”
Dr. Laszlo Valentyik, 87, a resident of Houghton passed away Friday, October 28, 2022.
He was born on September 13, 1935, in Budapest, Hungary, son of Laszlo and Erzsebet Valentyik.
Laszlo grew up in Budapest during World War II and the post-war years, and enjoyed academics, sports, and working on cars/trucks and all things mechanical. He was especially interested in table tennis and achieved the title as Hungarian National Table Tennis Champion.
Laszlo escaped from Hungary during the 1956 Hungarian Revolution and immigrated to the United Kingdom.
He graduated with a Doctorate in Mining Engineering from Nottingham University and worked as an engineer for the UK government. In 1967 Dr. Valentyik accepted a position with Michigan Technological University (MTU) as a professor in the Mining Engineering Department teaching and conducting research.
In 1981 he collaborated and shared receipt of the Neil Rice award at MTU for the research publication, “Production and Evaluation of Lignite Pellets”.
In 1982 Dr. Valentyik married Louise Helene Fortin, from Quebec, Canada. They lived in Houghton and were active members of St. Ignatius Loyola Catholic Church. In March of 2007, Helene preceded Laszlo in death following a battle with breast cancer.
Laszlo was perpetually optimistic, friendly, and immensely enjoyed connecting with people in his community. He loved gardening, winemaking, fixing vehicles, traveling and staying physically active. His intense desire for continual learning was evident in every aspect of his life. Including learning several languages such as French, German, English, Russian, and completing multiple educational certificates beyond his PhD.
He is survived by his two children Terez Valentyik (Ted) Grady and Peter Valentyik; grandchildren Ryan, Jonathan, and Sarah Grady.
Laszlo’s family plans to gather for an informal remembrance in the Alumnae Room A in the Memorial Union on the campus of MTU on Saturday, May 20th at 4:30 p.m. All are welcome to stop by to share a story or memory of Laszlo with immediate family.
To view Laszlo’s obituary or to send condolences please visit memorialchapel.net.
The Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service – Hancock Chapel has assisted the family with arrangements.
Dr. Sung Mook Lee, a respected scientist, devoted father, and esteemed former member of the Houghton community, passed away peacefully on April 26, 2023, in Santa Ana, California. He was 90 years old.
Born on March 2nd, 1933, in Seoul, South Korea, Dr. Lee came to the United States after completing his Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Yonsei University. He continued his studies at The Ohio State University, earning a Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees in 1961.
Dr. Lee began his academic career as an Assistant Professor at Denison University in Ohio before joining Michigan Technological University (MTU) in Houghton, Michigan, in 1965. He made significant contributions to the University, ultimately serving as the Director of the Keweenaw Research Center in 1976 and later as Vice Provost for Research and Dean of the Graduate School in 1991.
Following his retirement from MTU in 2000, Dr. Lee remained active in the academic community, serving as a Visiting Scientist for the Software Engineering Institute at Carnegie Mellon University until 2011. He was also a proud member of the Army Science Board (ASB) during two separate stints, from 1991 to 1998 and again starting in 2008.
Dr. Lee was a dedicated public servant, providing invaluable advice on advanced science and engineering education and research to governments worldwide, including Korea, Japan, China, the United Kingdom, France, and Russia, as well as multiple US state governments, boards, and professional societies.
His love for adventure and discovery led him to Antarctica, where he studied the physics-based structure of snow and Antarctic ice. He served on the Arctic Research Consortium of the United States, the International Aviation Snow Symposium, and other professional councils. His outstanding work earned him the Antarctica Service Medal of the US Navy in 1987 and the Certificate of Appreciation for Patriotic Civilian Service, US Army Antarctic Service Medal of the United States in 1997.
Dr. Lee was a loving father to his three children, Peter, Patty, and Janet, who have all built successful careers in science, engineering, and law. He was a dedicated husband to Chungmi Kim and always remembered his first wife, Incha Lee, the mother of his children. Dr. Lee also leaves behind his brother, Yung Mook, and sister, In Mook, and six grandchildren.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Dr. Lee had a passion for classical music and cherished attending live performances of symphony orchestras and grand operas.
Many people around the world will remember Dr. Sung Mook Lee as an extraordinary individual who dedicated his life to serving others, advancing scientific knowledge, and enriching the lives of those around him. His unwavering commitment to excellence and his warm, generous spirit will be dearly missed.
The family requests that In lieu of flowers, a donation to Crush Rett Syndrome will help lead to a cure for one of Dr. Lee’s grandchildren, who suffers from Rett Syndrome. Donations can be mailed to Crush Rett Syndrome, 602 E. Rawhide Ave., Gilbert, AZ or online at mightycause. com/donate/Crush-Rett- Syndrome.
January 1 – March 31, 2023
| Class | Full Name | Degrees |
| 1946 | George C. Tackels P.E. | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1947 | Robert C. Hendrickson | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1947 | Leland G. Rodgers Jr | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1948 | Clinton A. Phalen | ’48 BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1949 | Anthony B. Bartoszek | BS Forestry |
| 1949 | Samuel W. Cota | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1949 | James B. Vittone | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1950 | Marvin V. Lefens | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1950 | Robert M. Swanson | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1950 | Paul T. Watts | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1951 | Fransis J. Siller | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1952 | Jack P. Johnson | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1953 | Charles D. Anderson | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1953 | Victor M. Castro | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1953 | John F. Pohlman | BS Business Engineering Admin, BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1953 | Wallace G. Renn | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1954 | William O. Drummond | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1954 | Elmer F. Werhane | BS Forestry |
| 1955 | William S. Burke | BS Mining Engineering |
| 1955 | John M. Smuk | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1955 | Daniel L. Stember | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1956 | Arthur S. Hamman | BS Forestry |
| 1956 | George T. Matthews | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1956 | Thomas R. Valentine Sr P.E. | ’56 BS Civil Engineering |
| 1957 | Harlan B. Niles | BS Geological Engineering |
| 1957 | Jack F. Shefchik | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1958 | Paul A. Erickson | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1958 | Ulyses S. St Arnold | BS Forestry |
| 1959 | Robert G. Langlois | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1959 | Wilfred J. Phillips | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1960 | Thomas R. Forsch | ’60 BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1960 | Alvin J. Gebeau, Jr. | ’60 BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1960 | Ronald O. Harma | BS Business Engineering Admin, BS Metallurgical Engineering, MS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1960 | Thomas W. Schmucker | BS Mining Engineering |
| 1961 | Richard P. Baker | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1961 | Col. James L. Baushke Ret. | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1961 | Merton F. Dibble P.E. | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1961 | Dr. Robley H. Morrison III | BS Mathematics |
| 1961 | Walter W. Tacke P.E. | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1962 | Anthony F. Raimondo | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1962 | Carl G. Schwenk | ’62 BS Geological Engineering, ’65 BS Geophysical Engineering |
| 1962 | Kerry S Shoemaker | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1963 | John M. Gogin | BS Forestry |
| 1963 | Jon H. MacLeod P.E. | BS Applied Physics |
| 1963 | Julio C. Raphel | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1963 | Darryl K. Tubbs | BS Geological Engineering |
| 1964 | James E. Belmore | ’64 BS Business Administration |
| 1964 | Ronald J. Gerlock | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1964 | Ronald O. Kay | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1965 | James A. Niemi | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1965 | Dr. Joseph L. Roti Roti | BS Physics |
| 1966 | Paavo K. Alasimi | ’66 BS Chemistry |
| 1966 | Daniel D. Astleford | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1967 | William H Webb | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1968 | Mark J. Arnold | BS Business Administration |
| 1968 | Alan D. Bockrath | BS Business Administration |
| 1969 | L. James Barnard | ’69 BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1969 | Timothy D. Burtrum | BS Electrical Engineering, MS Business Administration |
| 1969 | Leon J. Draxler | BS Mathematics |
| 1969 | William J. Gobert P.E. | BS Business Engineering Admin, BS Civil Engineering |
| 1970 | Ted A. Brzezinski | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1971 | Joseph Mark Krcmarik | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1971 | Terry M. Lane | BS Forestry |
| 1972 | Rodney J. Klingenberg | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1973 | Ross H. Jury | ’73 BS Business Administration |
| 1973 | Scott J. McKeough | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1973 | Kenneth G. Van Kley PE | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1974 | Robert W. Duncan III | BS Business Administration |
| 1974 | Murli L. Hinduja | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1975 | Kathleen L. Parker | ’75 BA Liberal Arts |
| 1975 | Gerald J. Ryszka | ’75 BS Forestry |
| 1976 | James N. Lehman | ’76 BS Civil Engineering |
| 1977 | Richard W. Dobie | ’77 MS Biological Sciences |
| 1977 | Zoe Ann R. Vicory | ’77 AAS Nursing Technology |
| 1978 | Steven R. Vanden Brink | ’78 BS Civil Engineering |
| 1979 | Phillip J. Hendrickson | ’79 BS Mining Engineering |
| 1980 | David T. Windmuller | ’80 BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1981 | Gilbert A. Brown | ’81 BS Forestry |
| 1983 | Kathryn R. Rautio | ’83 AAS Mechanical Design Eng Tech |
| 1984 | Kevin P. Erickson | ’84 BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1984 | Geoffry C. Kotila | ’84 BS Business Administration |
| 1985 | Susan A. Gillespie | ’85 BA Liberal Arts with History Opt |
| 1985 | Keith E. Moyle | ’85 BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1991 | Sharon I. Joles | ’91 BS Chemistry, ’95 MS Chemistry |
| 1992 | Jeffrey J. Morse | ’92 BS Forestry |
| 1993 | Douglas W. Stage | ’93 BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1994 | James T. Green | ’94 AAS Forest Technology, ’96 BS Forestry |
| 1997 | Matthew E. McPherson | ’97 BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 2007 | Jill M. Recla | ’07 BS Bioinformatics |
October 1 – December 31, 2022
| Class | Full Name | Degrees |
| 1899 | Arthur E. Maas | BS Mining, EM Mining |
| 1936 | Oscar G. Hane | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1940 | Charles E. Tackels Jr | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1942 | Walfred S Werner | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1943 | John C. Feldscher | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1946 | H. Bradley Johnson | BS Mining Engineering |
| 1946 | Robert L. Smith | BS Mining Engineering |
| 1948 | Louis P. Clark | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1949 | Russell W. Burman | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1949 | Angelo C. Coste | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1949 | Gale E. Dickinson ’49 | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1949 | Thomas C. Gebhard | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1949 | Oiva W. Hakala | BS Mining Engineering |
| 1949 | Douglas A. Kuhna | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1949 | Robert P. Matson ’49 | BS Mining Engineering |
| 1949 | Thomas Z. Pinder | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1949 | Donald J. Schwalm | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1949 | Vincent J. Zanella | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1950 | James S. Apostolina | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1950 | William L. Barke | BS Civil Engineering, BS Mining Engineering |
| 1950 | Philip C. Ellsworth ’50 | BS Geological Engineering |
| 1950 | Carl F. Hoehner ’50 | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1950 | Hoobert Huhta | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1950 | Dean R. Kelly | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1950 | Wayne L. Sullivan | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1950 | Earl C Sutherland ’50 | BS Metallurgical Engineering, ’50 MS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1950 | Clarence P. Ulstad | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1950 | Alan F. Walter | BS Civil Engineering, MS Civil Engineering |
| 1951 | David S. Hackley ’51 | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1951 | Gerald W. Heppler | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1951 | Robert H. LeGault | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1951 | Irving B. Perala | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1951 | Donald I. Severson | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1951 | Arthur B. Shurtleff, Sr | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1952 | Richard J. Annesser | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1952 | Norbert R. Grant | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1952 | James F. Harlin | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1952 | Jack P. Johnson | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1952 | Raymond E. Johnson | BS Mining Engineering |
| 1952 | Howard C. LaTourneau | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1952 | Kenneth J. Moody | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1953 | Frederick C. Hallgren | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1953 | Ronald L. Mathwich | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1953 | Robert J. McCormick | BS Business Engineering Admin, BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1955 | Gilbert J. Mroz | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1955 | David F. Pagel ’55 | BS Business Administration, ’55 BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1956 | Arnell L. Engstrom | BS Geological Engineering |
| 1956 | Samuel T. Wineman P.E. | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1957 | Dr. Donald L. Bullock ’57 | BS Physics |
| 1957 | Loren D. Carlson ’57 | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1957 | Dr. James I. Tanis ’57 | BS Geological Engineering, ’58 MS Geophysics |
| 1958 | Stuart J. Durkee | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1959 | Louis M. MacDougall | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1959 | Fred G. Nardi Jr ’59 | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1959 | George E. Winn | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1961 | William C. Mitchell | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1961 | Florian J. Mohar | BS Business Administration |
| 1961 | Loren S. Woerpel | BS Forestry |
| 1963 | Robert M. Ball | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1963 | Walter A. Grundman P.E. | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1965 | Roland J. McDonald Jr | BS Business Administration |
| 1966 | Dr Gary M Wenberg | BS Biological Sciences, MS Biological Sciences, PHD Biological Sciences |
| 1967 | Gian C. Taneja | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1968 | John R. Aho ’68 | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1968 | Kenneth W. Brayman | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1968 | Bruce G. Douglas | BS Mathematics |
| 1968 | John L. Fisher | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1968 | William H. Granger | BS Business Administration |
| 1968 | Dr. Robert B. Harper | BS Biological Sciences |
| 1968 | Robert M. Kubicki | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1968 | Dennis M. Lamb | BS Forestry |
| 1968 | Robert S. Middleton P.E. | BS Applied Geophysics, MS Geophysics |
| 1968 | Jon E. Myers | BS Forestry |
| 1968 | George W. Schemm | BS Mathematics |
| 1968 | John F. Stafford | BS Applied Geophysics |
| 1968 | James S. Tulloch | BS Business Administration |
| 1969 | Gail L. Luttinen | BS Civil Engineering, MS Business Administration |
| 1969 | Michael L. Priest ’69 | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1971 | Gilbert W. Cross | BS Forestry |
| 1971 | John H. Lewis | BS Mechanical Engineering, MS Business Administration |
| 1972 | Timothy Carpenter PE ’72 | BS Civil Engineering, ’82 MS Civil Engineering |
| 1972 | Francis J. Gagnon | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1972 | John C. Houston ’72 | BS Applied Physics |
| 1972 | Dennis A. Leith | BS Forestry |
| 1972 | Dennis G. McGrath | BS Business Administration |
| 1972 | William C. Saad | BS Mathematics |
| 1973 | Andrew J. Grgurich | BA Liberal Arts with History Opt |
| 1973 | Lawrence C. Joiner | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1973 | David P. Zielinski | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1974 | George M. Hnatiuk | BS Electrical Engineering, ’77 MS Mathematics, ’78 MS Electrical Engineering |
| 1975 | Patrick Parker ’75 | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1978 | Robin F. Righettini ’78 | BS Chemistry |
| 1983 | Mary J. Connors ’83 | BS Biological Sciences |
| 1983 | Nicholas J. Leiterman ’83 | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1983 | Mark S. Pirlot ’83 | BS Mining Engineering, ’83 BS Business Engineering Admin |
| 1990 | Jennifer L. Barhorst ’90 | BS Business Administration |
| 1990 | Melanie R. Harmala ’90 | BS Mathematics |
| 1993 | Timothy D. Gard ’93 | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1996 | Keith J. Latendresse ’96 | BS Environmental Engineering |
| 1998 | Shelley B. Mois ’98 | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 2000 | Richard J. McKay ’00 | BS Mechanical Engineering |
Headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, Barr is an engineering and environmental consulting firm that has been serving clients across North America and beyond since the 1900s. The engineers, scientists, and technical specialists at Barr work together to help clients develop, manage, process, and restore natural resources. Among those employees who are making an impact on the world are Michigan Tech graduates who have found their careers at Barr.
Diane Biehl, Environmental Scientist
Diane Biehl is an environmental scientist and Barr, where her project work is both exciting and technically challenging. “Michigan Tech prepared me for Barr by encouraging and growing my love for science, by developing my work ethic, and providing numerous opportunities for me to grow as a person outside of school,” she said. “My favorite graduate experience was working under Dr. Nancy Auer, who supported me with guidance and patience.” Diane received her Bachelor’s Degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in 2011 and her Master’s in Biology in 2016.
Katy Lindstrom, Senior Environmental Engineer
Katy Lindstrom graduated from Michigan Tech in 2006 with her Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Engineering where she discovered her passion for hydrogeology and groundwater modeling in her geohydrology class with Dr. John Gierke. In her current role, Katy enjoys the combination of technical problem-solving and building relationships with her colleagues and clients. “Michigan Tech is phenomenal at preparing students for “real-world” application of science and engineering,” she said. “Most, if not all, of my classes included presenting technical work in presentations and/or technical writing. Both of these aspects of my job at Barr cannot be overstated.”
Chris Miron, Vice President and Senior Chemical Engineer
Chris Miron is the vice president and senior chemical engineer at Barr. He says the most rewarding part of his job has been the opportunity to successfully remediate and redevelop many complex sites of environmental contamination in Michigan. Earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Chemical Engineering in 1988, Chris learned how to effectively work with teams of professionals to complete projects. “Michigan Tech provided me with a strong understanding of fundamental principles of chemical and environmental separation processes.”
Michael Spenle, Electrical Engineer
As an electrical engineer, Michael works on substation and renewable energy design projects which help to improve and sustain the electrical grid. “Michigan Tech prepared me for working at Barr in ways I didn’t realize,” he said. “Not only did Tech provide me with a uniquely challenging education, but I would say it’s mainly what Tech offered outside of the classroom that has helped me the most in my career such as student organizations, on-campus jobs, and career-focused opportunities like enterprise.” Michael graduated from Michigan Tech in 2016 with his Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering and a certificate in Electrical Power Engineering.
July 1 – September 30, 2022
| Class | Full Name | Degrees |
| 1929 | Cmdr. Edwin C. Davis, U.S.N. (Ret) | BS Mining, MS Metallurgy |
| 1938 | Edward A. Maki | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1940 | George B. Darling | BS Mining Engineering |
| 1942 | Robert J. Racine | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1943 | Edgar W. LeBoeuf | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1947 | William C. Bleimeister | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1947 | Arthur A. Dorffi | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1948 | Charles J. Haslam Jr | BS Mining Engineering |
| 1949 | Dee L. Dibble | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1949 | Arthur R. Tinetti | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1950 | Grant K. Cornell, P.E., USAFR L/C | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1951 | Fransis J. Siller | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1952 | John B. Eisenlord P.E. | BS Engineering Physics |
| 1953 | J. James Brozzo | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1953 | LtCol Kenneth B. Dungey Ret. | BS Forestry |
| 1953 | Norman E. Pietsch | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1953 | Erich B. Rabe | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1953 | William A. Richards | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1953 | Donald I. Rohrbach | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1953 | Garland J. Tartaron | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1954 | Frank J. Klima | BS Mining Engineering |
| 1954 | Jacqueline A. Rabe | BS General Science |
| 1954 | Capt. Albert R. Socha USN (Ret) | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1954 | Ronald W. Whiton | BS Mining Engineering |
| 1955 | William C. Schwarting | BS Forestry |
| 1958 | Claire R. Enerson | BS Forestry |
| 1958 | Robert E. Wiele | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1959 | John F. Lundberg | BS Forestry |
| 1959 | Daniel L. Rivard | BS Mechanical Engineering, HON Hon Doctor of Engineering |
| 1959 | Col. Thomas K. Sheldon (Ret) | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1959 | Robert P. Youngquist | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1960 | Galen H. Harrison | BS Electrical Engineering, MS Electrical Engineering |
| 1960 | Dr. Lee P. Hunt, Deacon | BS Chemistry, MS Chemistry |
| 1961 | Ronald E. Evans | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1964 | George A. Mackey P.E. | BS Civil Engineering, MS Business Administration |
| 1965 | John C. Garland | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1967 | Richard J. Kirkbride | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1970 | Walter J. Justice Jr. | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1970 | Michael F. Wilmers | AAS Civil Engineering Technology, BS Business Engineering Admin, BS Civil Engineering |
| 1973 | Wayne H. Neumann | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1977 | David R. Puvogel | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1979 | Eric J. Vial | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1980 | Charles L. Joffee | BS Business Administration |
| 1984 | David C. Aittama | AAS Civil Engineering Technology |
| 1988 | Thomas N. Lamb | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1989 | Mark R. Caron | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 2008 | Jed E. Hammond | BS Business Administration |
| 2019 | Collin J. Hagan | BS Forestry |
On May 27, 2021, Michigan Tech’s beloved Student Affairs colleague, mentor, and friend of so many, Rachel Wussow, passed away after spending over half her life fighting the effects of cancer. Rachel worked at Michigan Tech from 2006-2014 in housing and student activities. For all that knew Rachel, she was a bright light who loved the students she worked with and supervised.
Jen Julien from Houghton, MI, wrote on May 28, 2021
Rachel touched so many lives during her leadership roles at Michigan Tech. Many of us were influenced so heavily by her spunky personality, “get it done” attitude, and genuine care for student success. So many lives are better served by having been influenced by her.
A scholarship fund has been set up for students who best demonstrate their ability to participate in leadership development programs and community service, two areas of campus that Rachel cared deeply about. This is just one more way for the legacy of Rachel Wussow to continue to support the students she loved.
To make a gift to The Rachel Wussow Memorial Scholarship, please make a gift to fund 5619, or use the pre-populated giving form here.
April 1 – June 30, 2022
| Class | Full Name | Degrees |
| 1950 | James A. Johnson P.E. | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1950 | Gordon J. Voelz | BS Mechanical Engineering, MS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1951 | Robert L. Knutilla | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1951 | John C. Linton P.E. | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1952 | Marshall G. Pierotti | BS Civil Engineering, MS Civil Engineering |
| 1954 | Felix Mickus | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1955 | Charles D. Knauer Jr, PE | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1955 | John F. MacDonald | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1956 | Charles L. Lamoreaux | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1957 | Dr. Richard J. Arsenault | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1957 | Raymond L. Merrifield | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1958 | Janet A. Locatelli | BS Medical Technology |
| 1959 | James R. Falge | BS Forestry |
| 1960 | Theodore M. Kero | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1960 | William J. Lubitz | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1960 | Bruce P. Mitchell | BS Chemistry, MS Chemistry |
| 1960 | George W. Phillion | BS Geological Engineering, MS Geological Engineering |
| 1960 | Raymond A. Reynolds | BS Business Administration |
| 1961 | Rodney L. Hartung | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1961 | Allan A. Johnson | BS Civil Engineering, MS Business Administration |
| 1962 | Alan R. Besola | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1963 | David C. Anderson | BS Business Administration |
| 1963 | Maj. Gary C. Atkins | BS Business Administration |
| 1963 | Paul F. Haertel | BS Forestry |
| 1964 | John P. Goudreau | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1964 | Dr. Wayne Holbrook | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1964 | Norman P. Wimmer | BS Business Administration |
| 1965 | James A. Pietila | BS Forestry |
| 1965 | George M. Pintar | BS Business Administration |
| 1965 | David W. Stallard | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1966 | Robert E. Brooks | BS Business Administration |
| 1966 | David E. Brusseau | BS Business Administration |
| 1966 | Thomas W. Immonen | BS Forestry |
| 1966 | Edward J. Strong | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1970 | Samuel A. Leonard | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1972 | Thomas M. Neuville | BS Chemical Engineering |
| 1972 | Gerald F. Riutta | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1974 | Dr. Jeffrey G. Ronn | BS Biological Sciences |
| 1976 | Karen B. Hawke | BS Mathematics |
| 1977 | L/Col.Kenneth R. Moser | MS Business Administration |
| 1978 | Lawrence W. Albaugh | BS Forestry |
| 1978 | Edward M. Mills | BS General Engineering |
| 1979 | John M. Kelly | BS Business Administration |
| 1981 | Terrance L. Horvath | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1983 | Prakash K. Mirchandani | MS Metallurgical Engineering, PHD Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1984 | Jody A. Miller | BS Electrical Engineering |
| 1987 | Todd R. Rose | BS Mechanical Engineering, MS Mathematics |
| 1989 | Robert M. Bouwma | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 1989 | Charles J. Christy | BS Civil Engineering |
| 1990 | Dianne Maynard | BS Metallurgical Engineering |
| 1998 | Donald D. Arnold | BS Mechanical Engineering |
| 2008 | Thomas W. Ernst | MS Electrical Engineering |
Former Michigan Tech professor and advisor Frank Chernosky ‘55 was an early advocate for sustainability principles. His leadership and mentorship of students during his tenure starting the 1960s until his untimely death in 1971 had a great impact on many.
In memory of Chernosky, Mike ‘69 and Karen Gregory established the Frank Chernosky Award in Climate Leadership in 2021.
“When I was a student in the 60’s, the concept of sustainability was championed by Frank Chernosky and Duane Thayer,” said Gregory. “That was before the EPA existed. What better way to remember Frank and help solve the planet’s climate issues than to support a scholarship in his name to assist students studying and researching ways to achieve sustainability.”
Marc Levier ‘71 ‘77 joins Gregory underscoring the impact Chernosky had on his life.
“Frank Chernosky was the professor I admired most. He was the person I looked to for guidance as a student and as a young man who was finding his way in life,” said LeVier. “A field trip to nearby Empire and Republic iron ore mines in my first class with Frank opened my eyes to the mining industry, and I was hooked.”
LeVier also recalled Chernosky as a practitioner of his craft, working in the summer months doing test work for mining companies or in the field working on assigned projects. “Frank brought his students current knowledge and problem-solving skills for real issues. His lectures kept you engaged and wanting more.”
Chernosky’s widow Fay is happy to see Frank’s connection to Michigan Tech continue. “Frank was all about his alma mater. He worked diligently to provide his students with the best education possible to succeed in their profession of metallurgical engineering specializing in mineral processing. His industrial experiences provided him the knowledge to convey the skills he knew they would need.”
The first award will be granted for the 2022-23 academic year. Clare Fidler has been named the first recipient. “I’m honored and thrilled to have been chosen for the Frank Chernosky Award in Climate Leadership,” she said. “I feel I could make a positive impact on the world by focusing on a career in sustainability. Addressing climate issues involves not only environmental questions, but a human, social, and economic ones as well. I feel passionate about tackling problems in all of those aspects of life in order to ensure a sustainable world and future.
“I’m thankful especially for the professional development opportunities that this award will help guide me through. I feel that learning from experts in a real-world setting will aid my understanding of current strategies in addressing climate issues and help me start applying those tactics in my own career much faster.”
Fidler will not only receive $6,400 in scholarship assistance for the upcoming year, but she’ll also receive a professional development and applied work fund of $1,600.
For more details on how to support this scholarship or students like Clare, contact Bryant Weathers.