Worcester Polytechnic Institute - Peddler Yearbook (Worcester, MA)

Page 9 text:

Who could ever forget one of our first days at WPI when we assembled in Alden Hall addressed by Dean van Alstyne, to be affectionately known as van A. A tall, whispy, ageless gentleman with flyaway hair caught our attention by telling us to look at the people around us and saying that one out of three of those people would not be here four years later. Dean van A. has many duties. During scheduling, registration and course changes, he puts in many long hours trying to make our schedules the best for each of us. He is always there trying to get you off the wait list and into that course you so despetately need. His memory is uncanny; once given your name he can usually remember all your scheduling difficulties. As a teacher, van A. is challenging and marvelous. He has endless patience in going over the homework problems anonymously scribbled on the board before class. His help sessions were a Godsend given before his famous take home exams. Above and beyond, John P. van Alstyne is a friend to all. He is always one of the first to arrive at Boynton Hall at 7:00 AM each morning and often the last to leave at night. His office is open to anyone and he always seems to be able to give the much needed advice we seek. Van A. is a person whose essence will remain imprinted on our memories indefinitely. We dedicate this yearbook to him. 5