University Times

Frank John Draus, a long-time faculty member and administrator in the School of Dental Medicine, died March 4, 2009. He was 79.

A native of Dupont, Pa., Draus came to Pitt in 1956 as a research assistant in the school, rising through the academic ranks to associate professor and professor.

He held a number of administrator positions at the school over his 43-year career at Pitt, including chair of the Department of Biochemistry, director of short-term training for Indochinese refugee dentists, director of the foreign degree program, director of Admissions and assistant dean and associate dean for Academic Affairs, as well as associate dean. He retired in 1999 as associate dean emeritus and professor emeritus of microbiology/biochemistry.

Draus earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry at Alliance College, where later he would serve as secretary of its board of trustees. He earned his master’s and doctorate in biochemistry at Duquesne University.

Draus was a fellow of the American Institute of Chemists, and he held several leadership positions, including president, in the Pittsburgh section of the International Association for Dental Research.

Draus is survived by his children, Julia Scott, John Draus, Peter Draus and Elizabeth Hennion; his sister Irene Wojtach, and eight grandchildren.

Donations are suggested to Little Sisters of the Poor, 1028 Benton Ave., Pittsburgh 15212.

—Peter Hart