As we look ahead to MS&E’s 25th anniversary in 2025, we’re also looking back on the department’s legacy. The department stands on the shoulders of giants, so to speak—MS&E faculty and alums, many of whom joined departments that later merged to form MS&E, who have shaped our field and paved the way for today’s scholars. Below are verbal accounts from a few of those giants:

Richard "Dick" Cottle
Professor emeritus Dick Cottle reflects on the early days of Operations Research at Stanford, as well as his journey to get there, which went through Bell Labs, among other stories.

Kenneth Arrow
A Nobel laureate and former professor of Operations Research, the late Kenneth Arrow discusses his experience as an early faculty member and chair of Stanford’s Faculty Senate.

Jeff Raikes, '80
Jeff Raikes received his degree from the department of Engineering-Economic Systems, which later became MS&E. He shares tales from his storied career, which includes several years as the chair of Stanford’s board of trustees.