Janna K. Maranas *97

Janna died Nov. 3, 2022, in State College, Pa., at the age of 57.

She was born Aug. 11, 1965, in Portland, Ore. In her high school years, Janna excelled in flute and vocal performance. She started her undergraduate studies as a music major, but later switched to chemical engineering. She graduated from Cal Poly, Pomona with a bachelor of science degree. She continued her studies at Princeton, where she earned a Ph.D. in chemical engineering in 1997. Her dissertation research pioneered the application of simulation methods and thermodynamic concepts in the analysis of the behavior of polymer blends. 

Soon after her graduation from Princeton, Janna began her academic career in the Department of Chemical Engineering at Penn State University, reaching the rank of professor. Janna was known to be a dedicated teacher, a tireless mentor to students, and a cordial faculty colleague. She made an impact on the lives of her students, many of whom hold positions in academia and industry.

Janna is survived by her daughters, Cassandra and Christina; her mother, Mimi Mosbaugh; her sister, Rachel Tuck; and several nieces and nephews.

Graduate alumni memorials are prepared by the APGA.