About Donald G. Wells
Civil engineering professor emeritus Donald G. Wells passed away on May 1 following an extended illness. Affectionately known as “Water Wells”, he was a leader in the environmental and water resources group within the Civil Engineering Department and was especially instrumental in enhancing the department’s laboratory facilities. A graduate of Stanford University, he joined the faculty in 1970 and retired in 2003.
Wells was actively engaged in student extracurricular activities, both formal and informal. He served for many years as the faculty advisor for the Cal Poly Pomona chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), and loved playing volleyball and other impromptu sports with his students. He set a very high standard for faculty-student rapport and mentorship, a legacy that continues to this day. His retirement party in 2003 will long be remembered for its outpouring of affection from his former students, many of whom have gone on to very prestigious positions in industry and government.
He also was very active in professional affairs, including service on the board of directors of the Los Angeles Section of ASCE, and was a recipient of the James M. Robbins Excellence in Teaching Award.
About the Donald G. Wells Memorial Endowed Scholarship
In memory of his legacy, the College of Engineering has created the Donald G. Wells Memorial Endowed Scholarship. Donald touched so many lives in a positive and supportive way. Contributing to this scholarship will help that tradition to continue.
