75th Anniversary Celebration

In October 2004, the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics celebrated its 75th Anniversary with two days of special events attended by an enthusiastic group of alumni, faculty, students, staff, and friends of the department. On Friday, October 8th, the day started with presentations by alumnus Jon Lee (‘02), Professor Scott Eberhardt, and Department Chair Adam Bruckner on the department’s history. Distinguished Alumni Joe Sutter (‘43), and Dale Myers (‘43), alumnus Hal Ahlstrom (‘57, MSAE ‘59), and Professors Eli Livne, Charlie Vaughan, and Tom Jarboe gave talks on past and present developments in aircraft and space systems, and fusion energy research. Distinguished Alumnus George Jeffs (‘45, MSAE ‘48) presented the lunchtime talk. In the afternoon, the guests were led on tours of Guggenheim Hall, the former "home" to most of the 56 alumni who attended, and of the department’s other facilities.

The day’s activities were followed by a wine and cheese reception, and by a banquet at the UW Club, with presentations by Department Chair Adam Bruckner, College of Engineering Dean Denice Denton, Professor Kuen Lin (Co-Director of the new AMTAS Federal Aviation Administration Center at the UW), and by Don Brubeck, one of the architects involved in the upcoming renovation of Guggenheim Hall. The evening ended with a presentation by our 2004 Distinguished Alumnus, Gerard Brachet ( MSAA ‘68).

On Saturday, Oct. 9th, participants gathered for a morning of reminiscences. Students, former students, and faculty gathered in small groups organized by the decade in which they graduated (beginning with the '40s). Each group discussed their experiences in the department and in the wider world. After the group meetings, a representative from each decade joined a panel which talked about the defining events of their time. The morning concluded with a brunch and presentation by Distinguished Alumna Suzanna Darcy-Heinemann ('81).

The day ended at the UW vs. San Jose State football game in Husky Stadium, resulting in the only Husky victory of the season. No doubt the presence of AA alumni, faculty, and staff influenced the positive outcome of the game!

Over the two days of celebration, nearly 150 alumni, students, faculty, and friends helped us to recognize our achievements over the last 75 years. Thanks to all who participated, and all who have contributed to the Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics during the last 75 years! We look forward to many more years of growth and success. Hope to see you all in 2029 for the 100th Anniversary celebration!