Donald F. Crossan, AG '50, left, received the University's Medal of Distinction from Trustee Emeritus John E. Burris in recognition of his career as an esteemed professor and administrator and as a lifelong friend of the University. Crossan, who received his master's and doctoral degrees from North Carolina State, joined the UD faculty in 1954.

During his 37 years at the University, he chaired the plant science department, directed the Agriculture Experiment Station and served as dean of the college. He received UD's Excellence-in-Teaching Award and the E.A. Trabant Award, which recognized his efforts to support women students and faculty.

He established the Agriculture Scholars Program and the Donald F. Crossan Scholarship Fund for undergraduates, and in 1995, he was inducted into the Alumni Hall of Fame. Crossan retired as dean in 1991, although he remained active until recently in the Delaware Aglands Preservation Foundation.

Gov. Ruth Ann Minner declared July 26, 2001, as Dr. Donald F. Crossan Day.