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• Larson retires after 42 years
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Larson retires after 42 years

Maurice (Mauri) Larson came to Iowa State as an undergraduate in 1947. With the exception of three years when he worked at Dow Corning, Larson has been here ever since, first as a grad student and then faculty. When he retired in January, four former ChemE department chairs were among those who honored him.

Larson was at the hub of most of the changes in his department. He was instrumental in initiating the London laboratory experience, a pioneer study abroad program that celebrated its 25th anniversary in 1997. While department chair from 1978-1983, he initiated the co-op program. When it came time to enlarge Sweeney Hall, it was Larson who behind the scenes directed the conception, planning, fund raising, and construction of the addition.

In his technical area of crystallization, "Larson's publication of The Theory of Particulate Processes with Alan Randolph (first published in 1971) was a landmark contribution that brought great prestige to the department," said Richard Seagrave, ChemE professor and former chair.

Larson has provided "leadership to maintain our culture of excellence and collegiality," Seagrave said.