Winter 2007

Generosity elemental for chemistry grads

In their Miami days, they were known as one of the most accomplished chemistry classes ever. And now, the group of 18 graduates from the Class of 1996 has decided to give back to the university.

Dr. James W. Hershberger of the chemistry and biochemistry department said he met the group in its second year. “No matter what I threw at them, they handled it,” he said. “They were competitive… but they studied together, played together, worked together. It all contributed to their long-term success.”

Gretchen Potts, a member of the group, said the members decided to create the scholarship after a 10-year reunion last summer. “We were close and had all of our classes together,” she said. “Even after we graduated, some of us collaborated with each other or with Miami.”

The group -- which includes several physicians, university professors and industrial chemists as well as attorneys and stay-at-home moms -- has lots of fond memories, Potts said. “We were chemistry nerds,” she said. “But we really enjoyed our experience and we want to support others to have that same experience.”

Dr. Chris Makaroff, chair of the department, said the bachelor of science program is rigorous and lab intensive. The scholarship “will help us continue to attract and reward those who excel.”

Once the scholarship is fully funded, one student each year will receive about $1,250. The recipients will be chemistry majors who demonstrate academic merit and financial need.

Another member of the class, Shelly Stultz, said the professional success of the group “permits us to contribute to Miami.”

“It is also intended to be given to a student that embodies the spirit of the class of 1996… to help encourage the camaraderie that we had during our time at Miami,” Stultz said.

“As a group, we were really interested in seeing each other succeed,” said Jennifer Holt. “The chemistry program gave us skills to go on to pursue a variety of careers in science and medicine, and now it is our turn to give back.”

“They were an unforgettable group,” Hershberger said. “This is just another way that they are making their mark.”