MacDowell, Carl

Carl MacDowell began working at Rice University in June 1967 and continued for 32 years. He began as assistant to William Gordon, dean of Science and Engineering. In 1976 he was chosen to become assistant to the president. His tenure in that position lasted through two presidents – Norman Hackerman (1970-85), George Rupp (1985-93) and part of a third, Malcolm Gillis (1993-2004). MacDowell was highly regarded by all who knew and worked with him. Malcolm Gillis said of MacDowell, “Carl gained the trust of generations of students, faculty, and board members, and above all, the presidents he served.” His institutional knowledge was essential to managing the school. His love of the school was always apparent. MacDowell earned the trust of everyone who worked with him and knew that he would do the best job he could.

MacDowell retired in January 2000. Mark Scheid replaced him as assistant to the president after working with him in a transitional period.