 John
F. McMahon promoted relationships between industry
and academe and advanced the education of ceramic
engineers and artists during his tenure as Dean
of the New York State College of Ceramics at Alfred
University from 1949 to 1965. He was alert to the
relevance of research while he remained compassionate
to the educational needs of students.
For the 68 years that McMahon was associated with
the College as a student, researcher, professor,
division head, dean, curator and dean emeritus,
he focused national attention on the College and
heralded the importance of ceramic materials to
society.
As a president of the American Ceramic Society
and a founder of the Canadian Ceramic Society,
Dean McMahon influenced ceramic engineering and
education far beyond Alfred, New York. Honorary
doctorates from Alfred University and Clemson University
recognized his contributions to the field of ceramics
throughout the world.
McMahon led the College to consider the vital
needs of industry while maintaining a strong academic
tradition of basic fundamental research and education.
Long before others seriously considered ceramic
materials for automobiles, John explored the idea
with General Motors and saw promise of the use
of ceramic materials in automobiles.
As a further tribute to one of the
outstanding leaders of the New York State College
of Ceramics, in 1987 Alfred University created
the John F. McMahon Chair in Ceramic Engineering,
to be filled by a notable ceramic engineer or scientist
who exemplifies Dr. McMahon’s ideals and who focuses
national attention on the importance of ceramic
materials and the role the New York State College
of Ceramics plays in that field.
Dr. Richard M. Spriggs, Professor
of Ceramic Engineering Emeritus, was appointed
the first John F. McMahon Professor; Dr. James
E. Shelby, Jr., currently holds that position.
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