Impacting Lives
"I enjoyed working as Dr. Nelsen’s graduate assistant in the 90s. It was the best part of earning my master’s degree. He was a remarkable professor and a caring human being."
Rob Mays
Senior Software Engineer
Fall '10
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Wayne Nelsen served as an ISU faculty member from 1981–2000. Nelsen was a long time member of the University Academic Senate, served on advisory councils to the former Board of Regents, a director of four corporations (one of which conducted international trade), consulted widely in the field of computing, an automobile enthusiast, and a gourmet cook. Upon his arrival at ISU, it was clear that his personal computer systems, resources, and knowledge far exceeded those present in the Industrial Technology Department at that time. He was unselfish and generous in sharing both his resources and his expertise. It was common for him to supply computers, peripherals, and other electronics for student and departmental use. Throughout his 18 years at ISU, he provided leadership in raising the technical and computer expertise of students, faculty and administrators within the Department and across the University. Nelsen particularly loved working with advanced undergraduate and graduate students. He also believed that it only required a little extra effort and/or resources to achieve excellence. His commitment to this belief was evident in his cooking, cars, and professional life. Throughout his tenure at Illinois State he projected and elevated the image of excellence and pride he felt in, and wanted for, students, faculty, and the institution.
"I enjoyed working as Dr. Nelsen’s graduate assistant in the 90s. It was the best part of earning my master’s degree. He was a remarkable professor and a caring human being."
—Rob Mays, Senior Software Engineer
