The mission of the Frison Institute is to enhance and promote the
department of anthropology’s research and educational programs. It
achieves this goal largely by funding archaeological research in Wyoming
and the Rocky Mountains, through student and faculty participation in
international educational and research opportunities, and through public
outreach, including an annual lecture (in September), volunteer
participation in field and lab programs, public talks by the Director
and department faculty, and cooperation with the Wyoming Archaeological
Society.
The Institute is named after George C. Frison, UW
professor emeritus. Born and raised in Ten Sleep, Dr. Frison spent his
early years working sheep and cattle. But he devoted his spare time to
collecting arrowheads, exploring the many caves of the Bighorn
Mountains, and developing a love for the history and prehistory of
Wyoming. During World War II he joined the U.S. Navy and served in the
Pacific. Encouraged by several professional archaeologists, he entered
the University of Wyoming to study archaeology in 1962. He then
attended the University of Michigan, obtaining his doctorate in a record
three years. Dr. Frison returned to Wyoming in 1967 as head of the new
Department of Anthropology; in 1968, he became the first Wyoming State
Archaeologist.
George literally wrote the book on Wyoming
archaeology (Prehistoric Hunters of the High Plains). His many books
and papers have made him an internationally-recognized figure in
archaeology. He has received the lifetime achievement award from the
Society for American Archaeology, the University of Wyoming’s
Distinguished Former Faculty award, and the College of Arts and Sciences
Medallion award. When he retired, the state legislature celebrated
George Frison Day to recognize his election to the prestigious National
Academy of Sciences. His commitment to quality research, his
selflessness, and quiet western manners have enriched the lives of all
who have known him.
Dr. Robert L. Kelly, Director
George C. Frison Institute
Dept 3431
1000 E. University Avenue
Laramie, WY 82071
307-766-6920
Email: RLKELLY@uwyo.edu
Interim Director, 2012-13
Dr. Todd Surovell
307-766-6920
Email: SUROVELL@UWYO.EDU
