MechSE distinguished alumnus Karl S. Pister (PhDTAM ’52) died on May 14 at his home in Walnut Creek, California. He was 96.
Professor Pister was an engineering professor emeritus and former Dean of Engineering at the University of California, Berkeley, and a former UC Santa Cruz chancellor. He devoted more than 70 years to higher education and to expanding educational opportunities for students from kindergarten to graduate school.
He had a remarkable career in higher education, starting as a structural engineering professor and dean of engineering at UC Berkeley and rising to UCSC chancellor and University of California vice president. Well in his 80s, he continued work that guided the direction of education and science, particularly in California.
“Karl was a wonderful and wise teacher, mentor, supporter and kind friend to me and many others fortunate enough to know him over his long and distinguished career. He will be missed,” said UC President Michael V. Drake.
Professor Pister received the Distinguished Alumni honor from MechSE in 2004.
Read a full tribute to Professor Pister on the UC Berkeley website.