Stephanie Johnson
University of Redlands, 909-748-8075
Passing of Dr. Larry Harvill
Dec 10, 2024
Dear University Community:
I write today to share the sad news that Professor Emeritus Dr. Larry Harvill, a beloved member of our Bulldog family, peacefully passed away on Thanksgiving Day at the age of 89. He leaves behind a legacy of extraordinary contributions to our University of Redlands community.
Larry joined the University of Redlands in 1964 as an Assistant Professor of Engineering and Applied Mathematics. He was promoted to Associate Professor in 1968 and Professor in 1974. Together with his friend and colleague Dr. Robert Engel, he co-founded the University’s engineering program.
Throughout his career, Larry conducted research and consulted with companies such as Lockheed, IBM, and Loma Linda University Medical Center. However, he was probably best known for his work as an administrator. From 1974 to 1992, he served as chair of the Department of Engineering and later became the first director of the Stauffer Center for Science, Mathematics, and Environmental Studies. Additionally, he served as Vice President for Academic Affairs from 1971 to 1974.
Larry was also instrumental in the creation of the University’s Fletcher Jones Foundation Computer Center in 1984, alongside emeriti faculty members Dr. Engel and Dr. Dave Bragg. Their efforts paved the way for the integration of personal computers on our campus—a pioneering step that continues to empower students and faculty today. When the University unveiled the Fletcher Jones Foundation Innovation Center in 2021, we proudly acknowledged Dr. Harvill and his colleagues as the visionary leaders who laid the foundation for our progress.
We send our deepest condolences to Larry’s wife, Evelyn, their six children, and many grandchildren.
A celebration of Larry’s life and legacy will be held on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. in the Casa Loma room. All members of the University community are invited to join in honoring his memory and the indelible mark he left on our institution.
Sincerely,
Krista L. Newkirk
President