John R. Bassett, professor emeritus of forestry, retired from active faculty status on June 30, 1994, following a distinguished career as an administrator, teacher, and researcher. Professor Bassett earned his AB. degree in 1949, his B.S.F. degree in 1951, his M.S.F. degree in 1952, and his Ph.D. degree in 1961, all from the University of Michigan. Following service in the U.S. Navy from 1952-56, he was employed by the U.S. Forest Service from 1956-67.
He joined the University of Michigan as an assistant professor of forestry in 1967; he was promoted to associate professor in 1968 and professor of forestry in 1976. He was director of undergraduate programs from 1980-83 and associate dean for academic affairs from 1983-92.
Bassett's teaching has ranged from general interest courses for non-majors to highly specialized courses. Well over 100 students per semester have enrolled in his class, "Forests for People." At the same time, he has taught courses in biological management, forest biology, and his particular area of interest, silviculture or vegetation management. Professor Bassett's teaching is noteworthy for its combination of science and theory of management with practical application in the field. Students in his classes could count on theory being translated into application by visiting research sites and management units.