Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering

Murray J. (BSEE ’43) and Ruth M. Harpole created the Harpole Professorship in 2000 to support senior-level professors who provide leadership in developing ECpE academic courses and research programs, seek interdisciplinary applications of teaching and research concepts, and promote communication and interaction with industry. National Academy of Engineering Professor Vijay Vittal (PhDEE ’82) held the Harpole Professorship from 2000 to 2004. Professor Jim McCalley currently holds the professorship.

The Harpoles, who reside in St. Paul, Minnesota, also have supported the Engineering Teaching and Research Complex, student scholarships, and faculty development opportunities at Iowa State. Murray is the retired chairman and CEO of Pentair, a global, diversified manufacturing company that he co-founded. He was inducted into the Minnesota Business Hall of Fame and received the College of Engineering’s Professional Achievement Citation in Engineering in 1985. In 1987, he received the Anson Marston Medal. He also has served on the ECpE department’s External Advisory Board. Murray and Ruth received the ISU Foundation’s 2005 Order of the Knoll Campanile Award for service and generosity that advanced the excellence of Iowa State.

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