FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. - Professor Eric (Rick) M. Malstrom, 54, died unexpectedly this morning (Tuesday, Feb. 22) while jogging. Malstrom was a professor and chairperson in the department of industrial engineering.

Malstrom joined the University of Arkansas as professor and head of the department in 1987. Prior to that, he was a professor of industrial engineering at Iowa State University from 1979 to 1987.

"This is a great loss for the University of Arkansas and the industrial engineering profession," said UA Chancellor John A. White. "Rick was recently elected International President of the Institute of Industrial Engineers.

"Rick was my long-time friend," White added, "and I will miss him very much. All of us at the University will keep his wife, Kathy, and children in our prayers."

Malstrom received his BS in electrical engineering from Purdue University in 1967. He received an MS degree in industrial operations in 1972 and a Ph.D. in industrial engineering in 1974, both from Purdue University.

Malstrom is survived by his wife, Kathy, an academic counselor in the College of Education and Health Professions; one son, Derek, 22, a student at the U of A; and, one daughter, Erin, 24, also a student at the U of A.

Funeral arrangements are pending.