Zhang Hanying, born in Heze, Shandong Province, was an expert on Hydraulics and a pioneer in the development of the hydraulic systems in China. He entered Peiyang University in 1918, studying Civil Engineering. In 1925, he earned his M. E. from Cornell University, USA. From 1937 to 1945, Mr. Zhang was the leader of the Yellow River Commission, serving as the President, Secretary-General, and the Engineer-in-Chief. From 1950 to 1979, Mr. Zhang was the Vice-director of the Ministry of Water Resources and Hydropower as well as the director of its Technical Commission. Mr. Zhang devoted his life to the development of the hydraulic systems in China, making indelible contributions to the control and development of the Yellow River. He was elected the deputy to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd session of the National People’s Congress (NPC). He was also the member of the 5th and 6th Standing Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC). His administration as President of Peiyang University was from 1948 to 1949.