Richard Gowen

As President of the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology from 1987-2003, Dr. Gowan guided research programs in advanced materials resulting in unique lab facilities, expansions in regional business, and the formation of a national coalition to continue their use in industry. A leading developer of the High Priority Connection Internet Software, Dr. Gowen helped combine the access of the Internet with advances in database technologies to provide secure personalized information services. He has coordinated the conversion of the Homestake Gold Mine into a NSF supported National Underground Science Laboratory.

Dr. Gowan guided integrating computer technologies into engineering and sciences programs at SDSMT, and developing computer information systems degrees in business and education. In 2000, Dr. Gowen served as Commissioner on the nation's Web-Based Education Commission and recommended how the web can enhance all educational levels and provide equal access to all students. He is committed to improving opportunities for Native Americans interested in engineering and science careers.

In 1957 Dr. Gowan joined both the RCA Laboratories and the Air Force. While a faculty member in the Electrical Engineering Dept. at the Air Force Academy, he directed the joint NASA-Air Force Space Medical Instrumentations, and served on the NASA Astronaut Medical Launch and Recovery team for the Apollo and Skylab missions.

Dr. Gowen has been centennial president of IEEE, Eta Kappa Nu President, and President of the Triangle Coalition for Science and Technology Education. He was Chairman of the Board of Directors of the American Association of Engineering Societies and continues to sit on numerous boards.