Robert Mooradian, Bus. '65

Robert Mooradian (pictured with his wife) has many reasons to celebrate this year. He turned 96 in November and he and his wife, Phyllis, will celebreate their 75th wedding anniversary in December.

Mooradian is a U.S. Navy Veteran who served in Cuba during World War II. After starting a career with Ford Motor Company he decided to go to college to earn his college degree. As a non-traditional student, he worked during the day and attended night classes at Wayne State where he earned a bachelor's degree in 1965 at the age of 43. He had a 55 year career as an engineer with Ford Motor Co. as an engineer. He first retired at the age of 65, but within weeks he returned to Ford to work as a full-time consultant for an additional 15 years. He retired a second time at the age of 80. During his time as a consultant he made significant contributions in the cost analysis of manufacturing PEM Fuel Cells and was recognized as a leader and expert in this area.

Mooradian and his wife have four children: Paul (Pam) Mooradian; Don (Kathleen) Mooradian; Bob (Mary Ann) Mooradian; and Barbara Ann Mooradian, six grandchildren and four great grandchildren. According to the family, the couple has passed on to their children and grandchildren the importance of education.