We all know that it is the people working behind the scenes that have made this a reality. Jim Barany has been one of those people at our School. As many of you already know, Jim, who spans seven decades at Purdue, is planning his last lecture this semester as he will be retiring after 52 years of exemplary service.

 

A native of South Bend, James W. Barany received his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Notre Dame while working the night shift at the Studebaker Motor Corporation. He entered Purdue's industrial engineering graduate program in 1956 with the first class of industrial engineering undergraduates. Following completion of his master's degree, he was appointed to the faculty as an instructor in 1958 and promoted to assistant professor after finishing his PhD in 1961.

 

As a researcher, Barany gained international recognition for his studies of hemiplegic gait using a force platform of his original design, fabrication, and validation. His rapid promotion to full professor in 1969 was followed by appointment as the associate head of Undergraduate Programs for the School of Industrial Engineering in 1970, a position he still holds. Barany's hallmark, and what hundreds of alumni who have passed through his office will remember most, is his dedication and passion for students. He always made himself available to students and has spent countless hours helping them succeed in their classes and in life.

 

Barany remains active with student organizations on campus. He is the faculty advisor for the student chapter of the Institute of Industrial engineers, which he has done since 1972. He also has served as faculty fellow at Tarkington Hall since 1975.

 

In honor of Dr. Barany, the school has established a scholarship endowment named in his honor. To make a gift to the Dr. James Barany Scholarship Endowment in Industrial Engineering, please contact the Development Office at 765-496-7827.