July 12-13, 2001

ITEM 112-1001-R0701   Professor Emeritus Status for David E. Bilderback, Professor of Biological Sciences and Botany, College of Arts and Sciences; The University of Montana-Missoula

 

THAT: David E. Bilderback, in his twenty-ninth continuous year of dedicated service to The University of Montana, has merited the commendation of the Board of Regents of the Montana University System, and has earned the title of Professor Emeritus of Biological Sciences and Botany.

 

EXPLANATION: Dr. David E. Bilderback earned his Ph.D. degree in 1968 from the University of Oregon. Professor Bilderback was a Visiting Assistant Professor in the Department of Botany at The University of Montana in 1968-69, returning as a permanent member of the faculty in 1972. During his career at The University of Montana, Professor Bilderback taught a wide array of plant sciences courses, mentored numerous graduate students, and published widely in plant developmental biology and other botanical subjects. His publications include a 1987 edited book on botanical consequences of the Mount St. Helens eruption.

Throughout his career, Professor Bilderback gave selflessly to the development and service needs of the University and its programs. He served terms as Chair of the Botany Department and Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, and has served on and chaired numerous standing and ad hoc committees at departmental, college, and University levels. Many departments and programs have benefited from his encyclopedic knowledge of curricular structure and his interest in advancing improvement in educational offerings. Professor Bilderback received both the Distinguished Service Award and the Faculty Service Award.

Professor Bilderback's recent contributions to the University and the State have included dedicated efforts to enhance opportunities for minority students in higher education and to advance student success on campus.

The Division of Biological Sciences proudly recommends Professor David E. Bilderback for Emeritus status.