A Legacy of Excellence
In the history of Northern Arizona University (NAU), few names resonate with the same level of respect and admiration as Dr. James Wick. His twenty-two years as the Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences were not just a chapter in the university’s story; they were a turning point that set the stage for its future as a scientific powerhouse.
This is the story of a man whose unwavering dedication and innovative spirit didn’t just build a department—they shaped the very soul of a university and inspired generations of scientists to come.
From an Iowa Farm to the Forefront of Science
Born in 1923 on a family farm in the heart of Henry County, Iowa, James Wick’s early life was a world away from the hallowed halls of academia. It was a life grounded in the values of hard work and a profound appreciation for education, instilled in him from a young age.
His journey began in a humble one-room schoolhouse, a simple start for a man who would one day stand at the forefront of scientific education. Recognizing a spark of brilliance in their son, his parents made the pivotal decision to send him to a larger school in a neighboring community.
This move not only set him on a new academic path but also led him to the love of his life, his future wife. After honorably serving his country in World War II, Wick’s thirst for knowledge led him to Kansas State University, where he earned his M.A., and then to Iowa State University, where he achieved his Ph.D. in Entomology and Zoology.
A Transformative Era at NAU
In 1959, Dr. Wick’s arrival at what was then Arizona State College marked the beginning of a new era. As the newly appointed Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences, he became the driving force behind the institution’s evolution into a vibrant hub of scientific research and innovation.
His leadership was anything but ordinary. It was a dynamic blend of forward-thinking vision and a deeply collaborative spirit. He wasn’t just an administrator; he was a builder, a mentor, and a visionary who saw the immense potential for greatness in a small but ambitious university.
Pioneering Initiatives and Lasting Innovations
Dr. Wick’s time at NAU was a whirlwind of groundbreaking initiatives that forever changed the university’s academic landscape. He had a rare gift for turning ambitious ideas into tangible realities, often through unconventional and highly collaborative means.
The Dawn of a New Academic Era
One of his most enduring achievements was the establishment of the university’s first-ever doctoral program in Biology. This was a monumental step that not only elevated NAU’s academic standing but also firmly established it as a serious contender in the world of scientific research.
The Electron Microscope and the Power of Collaboration
His innovative spirit shone brightly in his resourcefulness. Faced with a tight budget, he masterfully secured a $40,000 electron microscope by bringing together the engineering and modern languages departments to pool their funds.
This single act was a powerful testament to his unique ability to forge partnerships and find creative solutions to even the most daunting challenges.
A Sigma Xi Chapter Like No Other
He also founded the NAU chapter of Sigma Xi, the prestigious national scientific honorary society. In a move that was unheard of at the time, he extended membership to off-campus scientists from renowned institutions like the Lowell Observatory and the Forest Service.
This fostered a uniquely collaborative scientific community that reached far beyond the traditional boundaries of the university.
A Leader with a Regional Impact
Dr. Wick’s influence was not confined to the NAU campus. As the president of the Arizona Academy of Sciences, he was instrumental in its expansion to include Nevada, creating a larger and more dynamic platform for students to present their research and gain invaluable professional experience.
His unwavering commitment to nurturing scientific talent and promoting research sent ripples of positive change throughout the region, cementing his reputation as a true leader in the scientific community.
The Enduring Legacy of a Visionary
Decades after his retirement in 1987, Dr. James Wick’s legacy is more vibrant than ever. The annual James R. Wick Memorial Lecture Series, a premier event that brings nationally prominent biological scientists to the university, stands as a living tribute to his enduring commitment to academic excellence.
An endowed fund, lovingly established by biology graduates, honors his unwavering dedication to the biological sciences. The strong foundations he laid—a diverse and talented faculty, advanced degree programs, and a thriving research culture—continue to be the lifeblood of the university’s ongoing success.
A Man of Vision, A Man of Action
Dr. James Wick was far more than just an academic. He was a man of vision and a man of action. His remarkable ability to see the bigger picture, combined with his down-to-earth, practical approach to problem-solving, allowed him to achieve what many thought was impossible.
His life story is a powerful and inspiring reminder that true leadership is not about titles or authority. It’s about inspiring others, fostering collaboration, and leaving a lasting impact that transcends generations.
The real James Wick, the visionary leader who hailed from a small Iowa farm, built a legacy that will continue to inspire and shape the future of science for generations to come.
