1957: A Pivotal Year for NC State’s Chemistry Program
Courtesy of North Carolina State University, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Department of Communication Services Records (UA100.099), Special Collections Research Center at NC State University Libraries
Courtesy of North Carolina State University, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Department of Communication Services Records (UA100.099), Special Collections Research Center at NC State University Libraries
Courtesy of University Archives Photograph Collection. People (UA023.024), Special Collections Research Center at NC State University Libraries
On November 5, 1957, a proposal emerged for the formation of a reconstituted Department of Chemistry, driven by Lodwick C. Hartley (English), Preston W. Edsall (History and Political Science), Clark Lee Allen (Economics), and R. R. Hentz (Chemistry). They aimed to separate pure chemistry from applied chemistry and address the lack of a dedicated degree program.
Their vision included a comprehensive undergraduate curriculum in inorganic, analytical, organic, physical, and biological chemistry, culminating in a Bachelor of Science. Additionally, they sought to create master’s and Ph.D. programs covering various chemistry fields, from agricultural to nuclear chemistry.
Key to this initiative was faculty recruitment and the need for modern facilities and equipment, ensuring the department could attract top educators and support teaching and research effectively. This proposal marked a significant commitment to advancing chemistry education and research, ultimately shaping the academic landscape for future generations.
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