William Henry Danforth

Here is a fuller biography of William Henry Danforth II (1926–2020), emphasizing his scientific, medical, and institutional contributions:

William Henry Danforth II — Life, Science & Legacy

Learn about William H. Danforth II (1926–2020), American physician, academic leader, and philanthropic scientist. Explore his career in cardiology, his transformative role as chancellor of Washington University, and his founding of the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center.

Introduction

William Henry Danforth II (April 10, 1926 – September 16, 2020) was an American physician, medical researcher, university administrator, and philanthropist.

Although not a “pure” laboratory scientist in the mold of a bench researcher all his life, his contributions straddled medicine, institutional leadership, and promotion of plant science research through founding and supporting scientific centers.

He is best known as the longtime Chancellor of Washington University in St. Louis (1971–1995) and the founding chairman of the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center.

Early Life & Education

• Danforth was born on April 10, 1926 in St. Louis, Missouri.

• He came from a prominent family: his grandfather, William H. Danforth (Sr.), was the founder of Ralston-Purina, and his father, Donald Danforth Sr., played a leadership role in expanding that business.

• Danforth attended prep schools including Community School and St. Louis Country Day School, and initially studied at Westminster College before transferring to Princeton University, from which he earned a B.A. in 1947.

• He then attended Harvard Medical School, obtaining his M.D. in 1951.

• After medical school, he interned (and completed training) at Barnes Hospital in St. Louis.

Early Medical & Research Career

• Danforth served as a physician in the U.S. Navy, from around 1952 to 1954, during or following the Korean War era.

• In 1957, he joined the faculty of the Washington University School of Medicine as a cardiologist.

• Early in his career, Danforth conducted research in the laboratory of Carl Cori and Gerty Cori, Nobel laureates, contributing to the medical research environment at WashU.

• He gradually rose in academic ranks: by 1967, he was appointed professor of internal medicine.

• In parallel, he assumed administrative roles: from 1965 to 1971, he was Vice Chancellor for Medical Affairs and President of the Washington University Medical Center.

Leadership at Washington University

• On July 1, 1971, Danforth became the 13th Chancellor of Washington University in St. Louis (also sometimes styled “President” in certain sources).

• He served in that role until June 30, 1995.

• Under his leadership, the university underwent a major transformation:

  • He led a highly successful capital campaign (the “Alliance for Washington University”) which raised $630.5 million.

  • He oversaw construction of numerous new buildings, expansion of research infrastructure, and growth in scholarship funding.

  • He established 70 new endowed faculty chairs, helped grow the university’s endowment, and significantly increased minority student enrollment and retention.

  • During his era, the university recruited many leading science faculty, raising its research profile nationally and internationally.

• After stepping down as chancellor, he continued involvement in university governance, including serving as Chair of the Board of Trustees (1995–1999) and being named Chancellor Emeritus.

Later Initiatives & Scientific Philanthropy

• In 1998, Danforth founded the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, named in honor of his father, with the mission to advance plant biology, agricultural research, and to tackle challenges in food, sustainability, and environment.

• He served as founding chairman of its Board of Trustees (through 2013).

• Danforth also chaired the USDA’s Research, Education, and Economics Task Force in 2003–2004, which recommended creation of a national agricultural research institute. That effort contributed to the establishment of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) in the 2008 Farm Bill.

• He founded the Supporters of Agricultural Research (SoAR) Foundation, a nonpartisan organization advocating for funding of agricultural science.

• Danforth also was involved in BioSTL, a coalition for bioscience development and economic growth in the St. Louis region.

Personal Life & Character

• Danforth married Elizabeth “Ibby” Gray in 1950; they were married until her death in 2005.

• They had four children.

• He was known for his warm, personal style of leadership — students and faculty often referred to him affectionately (e.g. “Uncle Bill” or “Chan Dan”) and appreciated his engagement with the campus community.

• His life was marked by a deep commitment to science, education, service, and philanthropy.

Death & Legacy

• William H. Danforth passed away on September 16, 2020 in Ladue (in St. Louis County), Missouri, at the age of 94.

• His legacy is multifaceted:

  1. Institutional transformation: He greatly elevated Washington University’s research stature, facilities, funding, and global reputation.

  2. Bridging medicine & science: As a cardiologist and medical researcher, he embodied the link between clinical work and scientific advancement.

  3. Promoter of plant science & agriculture: Through founding the Danforth Plant Science Center and his advocacy work, he championed agricultural research at a national level.

  4. Philanthropic leadership: He guided major philanthropic investments in science, education, and local development — continuing his family’s tradition (via the Danforth Foundation) in a more globally oriented direction.

  5. Mentorship & civic engagement: Many remember him for his humility, mentorship, and his emphasis on service.

• His vision continues in the institutions he founded and supported, especially as global challenges like food security, climate, and sustainable agriculture remain pressing.