Dr. Merle Potter joined Michigan State University in 1965 after earning his Ph.D. in Engineering Mechanics from the University of Michigan; he also earned degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering. He also spent two summers at each of the following research facilities: Stanford University, NASA Glenn Research Center, and DOE’s Oak Ridge National Lab. He conducted research in fluid mechanics and energy analysis in buildings. He has received research grants that supported both M.S. and Ph.D. theses. He developed both undergraduate and graduate courses in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and applied mathematics. As chairman of the college’s curriculum committee, he led the college to develop a new undergraduate program in Applied Engineering Sciences. He has authored/co-authored over 30 books including 7 textbooks, 5 Schaum’s Outlines, and numerous exam review books for engineers. He is a recipient of numerous awards including the James Harry Potter Gold Medal. Dr. David Wiggert received his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering from the University of Michigan in 1967, specializing in fluid mechanics and hydraulics. In 1970, he joined the faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Michigan State University, where he taught and conducted research in hydraulic transients associated with free-surface flows and with pipeline systems. In addition, he conducted contamination studies in groundwater systems. Both M.S. and Ph.D. students as well as visiting scholars were supported in the research endeavors. Along with co-investigators he received the J.C. Stevens Award, American Society of Civil Engineers, and the L.F. Moody Award, American Society of Mechanical Engineers.
