Statement from Chancellor James B. Milliken on the death of former Chancellor Hans Mark

Hans Mark, Ph.D., leaves with us a heroic legacy of resilience, service and discovery, traits which defined his life and, through his efforts, enriched our world.  He was well known as a leading light in the field of aerospace engineering, and though his work as a scholar, teacher and administrator has created lasting effects on the lives of students and colleagues around the world, he was so much more.

Dr. Mark was a refugee, whose family escaped Nazi aggression to find a new life in America.  He took advantage of that opportunity and gave back first as a scholar and educator, inspiring generations of engineering students.  He served as a head of research at NASA, the Secretary of the Air Force and fortunately for us, Chancellor of the UT System.

In Texas, he found a home, and he advanced our state and its people by focusing on excellence in higher education.  He laid the groundwork for the establishment of UT Rio Grande Valley, the hiring of legendary leader and educator Diana Natalicio at UT El Paso, the growth of the technology industry in Texas and the development of informed, engaged and active citizens. 

Dr. Mark worked tirelessly to ensure that public research universities had the power to harness science and discovery in the public interest and expand the benefits of research and education for the common good.  During his term as chancellor, the System doubled its research budget and helped cement Austin as a high-tech hub.  Dr. Mark oversaw greater outreach to Texas’ growing Hispanic population, always with his eye toward the future.  He always remained dedicated to his students on a personal level, and to spreading knowledge and serving the world through teaching and innovation. 

While we mourn the loss of Dr. Mark, we celebrate his life.  His work not only shaped the field of aerospace engineering, but his service improved our System, our state and our nation.  His is a soaring example of what can be achieved with determination, an active, curious mind, and a spirit of service.  It is an example that will live on in the lives of those he touched, and one from which we can all learn.

We extend our deepest sympathy to the entire Mark family.