She had battled long-term diabetes and kidney failure. Yaris was born in northern Illinois, completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Illinois and received a Ph.D. in theoretical chemistry from the University of Minnesota in 1967. There, she met and married Robert Yaris, Ph.D., who has been professor of chemistry at Washington University since 1971. Beginning in 1976, Mary Yaris taught undergraduates at the University, particularly in recitation sessions in both physical and freshman chemistry. Students and colleagues admired her for her dedication, warm personality and indomitable spirit.
Students select the award recipient by ballot.
Matt Lautzenheiser, a second-year health administration student, was chosen to serve as one of nine Medline Scholars by the Healthcare Roundtable Institute. The George Warren Brown School of Social Work will honor three distinguished alumni, a distinguished faculty member and two recipients of the Dean's Medal for outstanding school service at its annual alumni banquet. The event will be held Sept. 18 in Holmes Lounge. The 1999 Dean's Medal recipients are William H. Danforth , chancellor emeritus and vice chairman of the Washington University Board of Trustees, and his wife Elizabeth Gray Danforth , both of whom have been strong supporters of the social work school. The Dean's Medal recognizes this couple's nearly half-century of service.