Distinguished alumna returns to present seminar

Professor emerita Dr. Alice Bennett (left) takes pride in the achievements of her former student, Dr. Mahin D. Maines, professor of biochemistry and biophysics, University of Rochester.

The foremost scholar on Heme Ozygenase returned to her academic roots at Ball State in late February to present a seminar and renew acquaintances.

Dr. Mahin D. Maines first came to Ball State from her native Iran in 1959, completing an undergraduate double major in biology and chemistry in 1964 and master's degree in 1967. After earning her doctorate at the University of Missouri, she held increasingly important posts at the University of Minnesota, the Rockefeller Institute, the University of Illinois and most recently at the University of Rochester. Her book, Heme Oxygenase: clinical applications and functions, published in 1992, reflects her significant contribution to scientific understanding.

While on campus, Dr. Maines presented a seminar on her current research and consulted with faculty. Dr. Don Van Meter, associate dean of the college of Sciences and Humanities, presented Dr. Maines with a certificate acknowledging his college's pride in Dr. Maines' achievements.

Dr. Maines used her first visit to campus since 1967 to renew friendships with one of her favorite professors, Dr. Alice Bennett. She also was hosted in the home of Mrs. Phoebe Reid, whose kindnesses when Dr. Maines first arrived in Muncie have never been forgotten. Mrs. Reid was the longtime secretary to former foreign student advisor Dr. Richard Alexander.