Tale of two lovebirds

Iowa State University has changed since Craig and Flossie Morrison first stepped foot on campus; however, the one thing that Iowa State has always been is a place to make lasting connections. This couple can attest to that fact.

Craig (L)(‘43 dairy and food industry) was working in the Memorial Union when he first saw Flossie (L)(‘43 institution management) across the room in the cafeteria. He was instantly lovestruck. 

“I spied her,” Craig says. “She was such a pretty girl, and I wanted to get to know her.”

And so, the couple got to know each other. Carpooling to classes. Walking through the beautiful campus. Their love was strengthened as they balanced time for each other with the important tasks of seeking degrees and earning a salary to pay for their educations. 

“There wasn’t much time for anything else,” the couple says. “That is how it was for most students. We spent time together whenever we could, and often it was when we were working.”

Craig -- who followed his elder brother to Iowa State -- spent a lot of time working in the ISU Creamery with fellow classmates and friends (sampling the ice cream projects being a sweet perk), training in the ROTC, and assisting in research. Ames was a strategic choice for Flossie, as she could live with her family while studying. She was actively involved in Kappa Delta sorority, volunteering with the organization long after graduating and forming connections that she keeps strong to this day. As a student, Flossie chaired the VEISHEA committee responsible for feeding the thousands of ISU students who attended events.

Flossie and Craig married on Dec. 17, 1942. After their graduation, Craig went off to serve in World War II, flying reconnaissance. When he returned, the couple settled in Iowa. Craig ran creameries and Flossie worked as a nutritionist for the Cresco School District. They had four children: Tom, Susan, Patricia, and Mary (L)(‘84 phys ed, MS ‘89). 

The Morrisons recently celebrated their 78th wedding anniversary. Looking back, they believe attending Iowa State was the best decision they ever made. 

“We made lifelong friends, gained the skills to adapt to difficult situations, and enjoyed the opportunity for a better life,” they say. 

For all Cyclones, Craig and Flossie recommend staying informed, participating in local communities, and being open to learning. While the world continuously evolves and transforms, some things never change. Iowa State University has – and always will be – a place for connecting Cyclones everywhere.

A special thank you to the Morrison children for their help in sharing the Cyclone Story of their parents. 

Story published: February 2021