Coming to OSU in 1961, Harold J. Evans held professorships in plant physiology and biochemistry until his retirement in 1988. Specializing in the study of nitrogen fixation, Evans also served as Director of the Laboratory for Nitrogen Fixation Research.
Robert W. Chick was the first Dean of Students at Oregon State University. Chick founded the College Student Services Administration program in 1966, becoming the Vice President for Student Affairs.
Robert W. MacVicar was president of Oregon State University from 1970-1986. MacVicar was also a professor of chemistry and tripled the size of the university's budget. During his years as president, the size of the campus increased with 23 additional buildings.