Ross R. Middlemiss was born in Marysville, Kansas. He received his advanced training in mathematics at the University of Colorado. Professor Middlemiss taught at Washington University for forty years, arriving in 1929 after a three-year period as an instructor at the University of Colorado. In 1966 he was presented with a Washington University Distinguished Faculty Award (given annually at the university's Founders' Day celebration). In 1969, he retired as Professor Emeritus of Mathematics.
When he arrived at Washington University, the Mathematics Department also taught such courses as dynamics, hydraulics, mechanics of materials, general engineering drawing and descriptive geometry. With a strong background in engineering mathematics, Professor Middlemiss taught several such courses in addition to more traditional mathematics.
From 1936 through the 1960's, he authored several books, including a widely popular calculus text that was used in our University College courses until the late 1970's.
A generous gift from Professor Middlemiss in 1994 allows the Department to maintain an Undergraduate Lounge for Mathematics Majors in Cupples I, Room 222. Declared majors can get access by contacting the Offices of the Department of Mathematics.