Ohio University College of Engineering Names New Professorship

Contact: James Fales, (740) 593-1456 or fales@ohiou.edu

ATHENS, Ohio (January 2, 2001) -- Ohio University Associate Professor of Industrial Technology Thomas Scott has been named the first Kraft Family Scholar in the Russ College of Engineering and Technology. Bob and Marie Kraft funded the professorship in recognition of Ohio University's influence on five generations of Ohio University graduates in the Kraft family.

Bob Kraft graduated from Ohio University in 1961 with a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering. In 1972, the Krafts founded Strongsville, Ohio-based Kraft Fluid Systems, a value-added distributor of hydraulic and power transmission equipment.

"The Kraft Family Scholar is a recognition on my part that education takes good faculty," Kraft said.

Scott, who was selected because of his excellence in classroom teaching, student advising, scholarship and leadership, is to serve as a role model for other faculty in teaching, research, service, professional activities and leadership.

Scott began his teaching career at Ohio University in the Department of Industrial Technology in 1993. He received his doctorate from the university in 1998 and was promoted to associate professor in 1999. He has published a textbook and a number of technical articles and received three awards for teaching excellence. Prior to teaching at Ohio University, Scott held various engineering design management positions at the Allison Gas Turbine Division of General Motors Corp.