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M. Jeanne Place (AeroEngr'50, MS '65)

Jeanne Place
Distinguished Engineering Alumni Award (Posthumous)
Category: Industry and Commerce

Jeanne Place built a 40-year career at General Electric, becoming an expert in heavy duty gas turbines and compressors and leading testing of compressors in the aerodynamics and performance subsection of GE’s gas turbine department. She was the first female engineering unit manager in the gas turbine department.

Place continued involvement with CU Engineering through an endowed scholarship established in 1988 that has supported 36 mechanical and aerospace students and counting. Place has authored letters supporting each student and met with many on an annual basis.

Her accomplishments at GE were recognized by the Managerial Award in 1968 and the Bell Ringer Award in 1977. Place co-authored a paper on compressor aerodynamics for GE personnel and customers, which is still in use today.

After retirement, Place continued to consult for many years. She remained active, pursuing international travel, tennis, hiking, kayaking and vacationing in the Adirondacks with friends. Place served as treasurer for her church and as an active member of the Philanthropic Educational Organization, which promotes educational opportunities for women.

Jeanne was thrilled to be honored with the 2018 Distinguished Engineering Award. She passed away on Feb. 3, 2018.