Bevan Morris, the longtime Maharishi International University president who shaped transcendental meditation education for over five decades, has died at age 76 in Fairfield, Iowa. Morris passed away on February 26 after serving as the university's president for 36 years until 2016, making him one of the longest-serving university presidents in the institution's history.

Morris joined Maharishi International University in 1980, overseeing its expansion from approximately 500 students to roughly 2,500 currently enrolled. During his tenure, he guided the installation of the iconic Golden Domes of Pure Knowledge and helped establish the university's Consciousness-Based Education approach. His academic credentials included degrees from Cambridge University and Maharishi European Research University, where he earned the first doctoral degree in Maharishi Vedic Science.

Beyond his university leadership, Morris served as chairman of the Maharishi University's board of directors and president of the Maharishi World Peace Fund. He traveled to more than 120 countries, meeting with global leaders in education, government, and business to promote Maharishi's programs for world peace. Tony Nader, current president of Maharishi University, described Morris as known for his "great heart" and the personal care he gave to countless people over many years. The university plans to hold services on campus, though no date has been set for the memorial.