Robert M. McCowen (1918-1965) joined the Iowa State staff in 1952. He directed the Iowa State Singers, the Festival Chorus and the Men’s Glee Club and taught voice and conducting. He served as festival director, contest judge and director of choruses for 20 colleges and universities. President Hilton said at the time of his death, “We have lost one of our most distinguished and beloved staff members. He was a fine teacher, a loyal friend of the students and added tremendously to the cultural life of our community. He will be missed very much.”