Syracuse Sun

The College of Engineering and Computer Science has announced the passing of Andreas Acrivos, a distinguished chemical engineering alumnus, on February 17, 2025. Acrivos was celebrated by the American Institute of Physics as one of the foremost fluid dynamicists of the 20th century and held a prominent position in the field of chemical engineering.

Originally from Greece, Acrivos came to the United States to study at university on a fellowship, obtaining his bachelor's degree in chemical engineering in 1950. He later earned his Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota in 1954 and began teaching at the University of California, Berkeley.

In 1962, he joined Stanford University's newly established chemical engineering department, significantly contributing to its rise to national prominence. In 1986, he took on roles as Albert Einstein Professor of Science and Engineering and director at the Benjamin Levich Institute for Physico-Chemical Hydrodynamics at City College of New York until retiring in 2001.

Acrivos's work earned him numerous accolades. He was inducted into several prestigious academies including the National Academy of Engineering and received awards such as the National Medal of Science from President George Bush in 2002. His career also included mentoring many students who went on to achieve success in academia and industry.

Biomedical and chemical engineering professor Ashok Sangani reflected on Acrivos's influence: “The two-quarter course that Professor Acrivos taught at Stanford was the most memorable course I ever took in my entire education,” adding that he continues to teach this material decades later.

In recognition of his mentorship legacy, an annual award by the American Physical Society for outstanding doctoral dissertations in fluid dynamics bears his name. The American Institute of Chemical Engineers also honors individuals with significant contributions through an award named after him since 2014.

Acrivos leaves behind an academic family spanning generations across universities worldwide. His support for ECS and dedication to transformative learning experiences ensures his impact will be felt long into the future.