Maurice Nelson was born in Hutchinson, Minnesota and after contracting polio changed his career plans from farmer to teacher. He attended the Mankato Normal School for one year before completing his Bachelor of Science from Stout Institute in Menominee, Wisconsin. Nelson returned to Mankato and taught Industrial Arts in the Normal School, Teachers College and College from 1918-1959. He also served as Dean of Men from 1925 until his retirement in 1959.
