College of Engineering Mourns Passing of Kevin Brown

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Kevin Brown

The College of Engineering is saddened to announce the passing of Kevin Brown, a distinguished alumnus and member of the Engineering Hall of Fame.

Brown died Jan. 26, 2021, from injuries sustained in a skiing accident.

Brown, who graduated in 1981 with a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering, led a successful career in the oil and petrochemical industries, beginning with Texaco and Sinclair Oil, and eventually retiring as executive vice president of Lyondell-Basell in 2017.
He was active in the University of Arkansas community, serving recently as chair of the College of Engineering Dean's Advisory Council and as a member of the Campaign Arkansas Steering Committee. He was named a Distinguished Alumni of the College in 2011 and was inducted into the Engineering Hall of Fame in 2018.

In addition to his professional success, Brown was a dedicated philanthropist who gave generously to causes he cared about, including the College of Engineering.

In 1998, he established the Kevin Brown Scholarship Fund to support students in the Ralph E. Martin Department of Chemical Engineering. In 2013, he and his wife, Marie, established the Kevin W. and Marie L. Brown Department Head Chair in Chemical Engineering, which continues to benefit students and faculty.

John English, vice chancellor for research and innovation, said Brown will be profoundly missed. English served as dean of engineering from 2013 to 2020.

"Kevin's passing is a tremendous loss for us all," he said. "Beyond his duties as a member and chair of the Dean's Advisory Council, Kevin's steady friendship and wise counsel were invaluable as the College navigated both significant changes and incredible opportunities. I'm grateful for the time we had with Kevin and for all the ways he made our College and University a better place."

Kim Needy, dean of the College of Engineering, said Brown's impact in the College will live on.

"Kevin exemplified the best of the College of Engineering," she said. "He was a brilliant engineer who saw tremendous success in his field, and he used that success to help those around him, including many in the College of Engineering. He was a friend and mentor to many, and the impact of his generous spirit will be felt for many years to come in the College."

A memorial service will take place at a future date when it is safe to gather. Brown's family has asked those who would like to honor his memory to consider a gift to the Kevin Brown Scholarship Fund, or to any charity that would honor his memory. Gifts to the scholarship fund can be sent here:

UA Foundation, Gift Services, University of Arkansas
1002 W. Maple Street
Fayetteville, AR 72701

Please note Kevin Brown Endowment Account #30-000225.