James E. Corbin (1921-2007)

Dr. James E. Corbin, 1972 AALAS president and the 2004 Griffin Award winner, passed away March 1, 2007 at the age of 85.

Dr. Corbin’s distinguished career in laboratory animal science spanned five decades, including a 19-year tenure at Ralston Purina Company, where he played a leading role in developing the Purina pet foods that are now known and used by consumers worldwide. In addition to his pioneering advances in animal nutrition and nourishment, Dr. Corbin’s professional life has also been characterized by active participation in over a dozen science organizations and associations. Notable positions include his former presidency of AALAS, his past committee memberships on behalf of such government agencies as the National Research Council and the FDA, and his most recent status as Fellow of the American Society of Animal Science. He received his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Kentucky. His doctoral work was completed at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Dr. Corbin also had a noted military career—he served as a lieutenant with the U.S. Navy during World War II. He retired as Professor Emeritus in 1984, but remained active in the industry through consulting until 2006.

In recognition of his many contributions, a memorial scholarship fund is being established—the Dr. James B. Corbin Companion Animal Biology Scholarship—for students in the University of Illinois agricultural, consumer, and environmental sciences. Contributions may be sent to Louise Rogers, associate dean for development, 166 Bevier Hall, 905 S. Goodwin, Urbana, IL, 61801.