Stanley Trail

When I took what seemed to be a temporary assignment as dean of undergraduate students in Liberal Arts and Sciences I knew that the scheduling of Math courses would be key. I called Professor Trail, whose name was listed as the departmental contact, and within a few minutes I believed I was talking to a giant, a genius . Whatever I needed in that time of our highest undergraduate enrollment, Stan would find a way. Weeks later I was walking to our car with my husband and a voice called out ...

I started work with the CHANCE Program in 1993. There was a bit of controversy about the math department. (math professsors will remember, I´m sure) I was asked to go to a meeting about this rough man who was chair in math. When I walked into the meeting, I met Stan. He looked very much like my late father, and gave me a warm smile and introduced himself to me. WHEW! We always chatted when we crossed on campus. Stan supported students who struggled with math. He was my hero.

I was in the Math Sciences department at NIU for 20 years in the 70s and 80s. Stan effectively ran the department from the assistant head´s office. He was liked by everyone and universally respected. He also had a great sense of humor! When I arrived in the department in fall 1971 he assured me that he had assigned me undoubtedly the best office in the building. It took me a week to realize it was exactly the same as everyone else´s! Rest in peace Stan.

I work with and for Stan for over 20 years in the Math Dept. He was one of the good guys. His humor was so funny! Miss working for him when I moved to position in a different department. Farewell my friend!