1987 september nobcche news by NOBCChE Archives

NOBCChE NEWS Volume 8, Number 4 ·I)

September 1987

Echoes of NOBCChE '87 By Gwendolyn L. Evans, Newsletter Editor, Western Region The 14th Annual National Meeting of NOBCChE, held in San Francisco this past April, offered a variety of stimulating activities that gave attendees much food for thought. The goal of these activities was to reemphasize to our members the urgency of becoming more prominently involved in the education of our youth and serving as contributing role models to help populate

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Of importance to industry, education, and minority communities is the nation's ability to supply the scientific and technical minority workforce of the future. Industry is concerned because the need for technical expertise of all races is increasing rapidly; the recruitment pool of technically trained minority applicants is decreasing rapidly along with the number of minority students

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Shirley Thornton tl1e black scientific arena. To that end, the theme of NOBCChE '87, Science Education: Tomorrow's Challenge, Today's Need, which portrayed the demanding and complex careers of tomorrow and the importance of our educational preparation today. forum Series One such activity offering food for thouf!l1l and focusing on the theme was the Forum Series in which panelists from indusl ry, ilc:ademia, and government examlnccl tl1e impact advances in science and tcc:hnolony will have on the minority com1111111ity, An alarming number of related critical issues was discussed.

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going into science and technology; and there is increased competition for talented young people of all races. Schools, especially urban schools, worry about the relevance of the material being taught in the classroom to meet the needs of minority students and to prepare them adequately. Their concerns are legitimate: the number of minority students in science and technology continues to decrease rapidly; fewer minorities are graduating with technical degrees; and minority students have limited exposure to science and technical careers. continued on page twelve

Let's Get Down on Front Street By Victor R. Mccrary NOBCChE News invites articles on topics of concern to our members. ffowever, those views do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the NOBCChE organization, the NOBCChE News, or the Editor. During my early youth I would spend many summers at my grandparents home in west Philadelphia. There, my grandmother would stuff me, my brother and my sister

journey into other areas, e.g., the 5-year plan by increasing our membership, our financial resources and the general awareness of the need for more minorities to participate in the fields of math and science. But before we embark on that journey, there is a bit of dirty laundry, so to speak, that need to be hung out on the line. It is an issue divided into Myths and Questions. If you are expecting a scientific leitmotiv, I suggest you put this

Victor R. Mccrary

with as much food as she could make, while my grandfather would hike us all over Philly to such places as Cobb's Creek, the Franklin Institute, and down by the Delaware River near Front Street. In the evening, after the usual feast prepared by grandma. the adults would congregate in the kitchen and "get down on Front St."; meaning that an in depth, frank family discussion was about to commence and that the youngsters better retreat to the TV-room or to the bedroom. Coincidently, next year's annual NOBCChE meeting will be held in Philadelphia, and before that time arrives, I'd like to address some issues that should be put on the table. This is so that we can not only make next year's conference a success, but also so that we and the organization can gain greater insight into who we are and where we are going. NOBCChE will celebrate its 16th year next April, and is now poised to

newsletter down and instead pick up an issue of Scientific American. or Omni. The following may provoke some and enlighten others; I hope in any case that its effect proves positive. So let's stop beating around the bush and let's get down on Front Street! The Myths Myth #I: The annual NOBCChE conference and local NOBCChE meetings are really excuses for its membership to get together to socialize (party). It hurt me the other day, when I spoke to a former NOBCChE member from the Southeast Region who stated that NOBCChE has not helped her professionally, and that the organization puts more emphasis on social functions, than gatherings addressing her professional growth. However, this observation is far from reality. The annual conference is, by definition, continued on page twenty three

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Messages From NOBCChE '87 Guest Speakers By Gwendolyn L. Evans, Newsletter Editor, Western Region Dr. Walter t:. Massey Luncheon Speaker, April 15 Vice President of the University of Chicago for Research, and for Argonne National laboratory

Mr. Lee f. Browne Opening Session Speaker, April 13 Director of Secondary School Relations and Special Student Programs, California Institute of Technology.

Mr. Browne gave a stirring presentation entitled Black Chemist, A Vanishing Breed?: Impressions, Predictions, and Prescriptions, at the Opening General Session of the 14th Annual National Conference of NOBCChE, this past April in San Francisco. His talk set the tone for the theme of messages that was delivered throughout the conference by other guest speakers and Forum Series speakers. Mr. Browne talked about the general miseducation and undereducation of Blacks in America, specifically as it relates to the decline of mathematics/science education. The end result could very well be a famine of black chemists by 1994. "As many as 45% of all Americans may be mis路 or undereducated. In spite of what several publications may suggest, nearly all poor people may fall in this group, and as many as 80% of Blacks. The 20% of the black educated group are surely not math/physical science/engineering oriented." Mr. Browne referred to this mis-and undereducation as educational apartheid, "the denial of equal access for whatever reason." "Educational Apartheid exists because our schools are under local control, and in most cases local control was in effect before the 1954 Supreme Court decision was reached. This decision has had only marginal effect at the K-12 levels in bringing about a

true democratization of schools, including colleges and universities. And consequently we can observe only small, limited true democratic success in the specifically academic sectors of our schools. We see only a few selective attempts to educate the masses that the 1954 decision was designed to help," Mr. Browne described the vicious cycle of "poor schools who have poor teachers who produce academically poor students." "Very little has been done through traditional educational channels to correct these inequities that are present in the inner city. Until city, state, and national patterns are developed to correct this regressive situation the vicious cycle will persist." To further complicate the situation, there is a conspicuous absence of role models for black youth, especially in mathematics, science, and engineering. If it is true that young people emulate success models, Mr. Browne urged that we must increase black role models in the mathematics, physical sciences, and engineering disciplines if we expect to have a development pool of black youth. Mr. Browne suggested several democratic prescriptions to combat the miseducation and undereducation of our continued on page thirteen

Dr. Massey's address focused on national and international competitiveness and what it implies for our conference theme, Science t:ducation: Tomorrow's Challenge, Today's Need. Competitiveness, as he pointed out, is the new buzz word in Washington and throughout the country. The President, in his state-of-the-art message, cited America's greatest challenge as that of competing in the international market place. But America's position vis-a-vis its foreign competitors has slipped greatly in a number of areas over the past decade, based on studies by the National Science Foundation, the Department of Commerce, and other agencies, Dr. Massey pointed out. "Our primary problem is not one of innovation and discovery, for the United States still leads the world in the quality and quantity of basic scientific and technical research, The major areas in which we suffer by comparison to other competitive countries are organization, follow-through, development. the translation of research to the market place, and the level of our quality engineering and quality manufacturing." "To maintain our edge in the international arena, therefore, the United States has to depend primarily on its strong base in science and technology, It is gratifying to us in the scientific community that the powers that be have begun to realize, perhaps more than ever before, that there is this very close relationship between development and

economic productivity. Indications are the recent doubling of the National Science Foundation's budget and the President's approval of the building of the superconducting supercollider to mainstream our leadership in a fundamental area of science," "America's solid stance in the area of research can be attributed to several of its strengths. For example, the support of individual scientists in an environment of free and open inquiry. Information can be communicated openly and quickly, which engenders the sharing of new insights rapidly and expeditiously. Finally, the diversity of the american system of research is a great strength. The combination of national laboratories, universities, and strong industrial laboratories is unmatched anywhere else in the world." "America's biggest problem in the international market place, however, is not necessarily connected with its ability to develop large-scale ventures. Its disadvantage in international competitiveness is what is at present the source of its strength: its human resources. America faces the danger, as a 路 nation, of not being able to replenish its scientific and technical talent at the rate required to maintain the preeminent systems of research it has developed." "The need to increase minority participation, especially Blacks and Hispanics continued on page eighteen

Dr. Sammuel P. Plassie Henry A. 11il/ Lecturer, April 16 "Let's Oo To Dookey Chase's" Professor of Chemistry, United States Naval Academy

Dr. Massie's lecture, Let's Go To Dookey Chase's, traced the history of Blacks in chemistry. In his stirring account he tracked the slow progress Blacks have made in science through four time frames: 191 O to the World War II days of 1945; 1946 to the human rights struggle days of 1965; 1966 to the present; and the present henceforth. Progress was slow because of the many prejudicial obstacles that blocked the path. Dr. Massie described the first period, 1910-1945, as the fledgling beginning of Blacks in chemistry educaton, applauding two important and influential educators, George Washington Carver and H. Elmore Brady at Tuskegee Institute, for their pioneering activities to involve Blacks in chemistry and chemical engineering curricula. The first period was characterized by many limited opportunities. Major graduate schools were reluctant to accept black students. Further, having Blacks on the faculty at these graduate schools was unthinkable. Graduate teaching assistantships were not available for Blacks. Industry had no interest in Blacks. Employment by government laboratories was limited or nonexistent. Additionally, black schools had limited funds, facilities, and equipment and few grants were available. These limited opportunities led to the establishment of the National Institute of Science (NS!) where black scientists could

present papers. George Washington Carver devoted his entire life savings to the establishment of the Carver Foundation at Tuskegee Institute so that black scholars could conduct chemical and biological research. During the second period, 1946-1966, the great need for scientific manpower made World War II a turning point for black chemists. Due to the shortage of qualified people, schools, government agencies, and industry had to hire Blacks. With this breakthrough, however small, a significantly influential group of black successful scientists hired in education, government and industry took advantage of the opportunity and developed programs that would get other Blacks involved in chemistry education. Scientific activity was becoming evident. Beta Kappa Chi Scientific Society started to recognize the achievements of young black scholars in science. Black scientists, encouraged by the acceptance of their scientific ability, began to write. Blacks were no longer limited to NIS meetings. Professional organizations began to recognize Blacks. School desegregation began to be felt. Black schools no longer had a monoply on top black students. Black faculty no longer was limited to teach at black schools. The large graduate institutions began to recognize the talents of Blacks not only as faculty but also as administrators. A new period was budding. continued on page twenty

Dr. Thomas Cole Awards Banquet Speaker, April 16 Chancellor, West Virginia Board of Regents, and Chief Executive Officer, The Public Higher Education System, West Virginia

In addressing the conference's theme, Science Education: Tomorrow's Challenge, Today's Need, Dr. Cole questioned what's wrong with the current educational system in the United States. "The Federal Governments's Commission on Excellence labeled the primary and secondary schools a state of disaster that put the nation at risk. The National Science Foundation decried science and mathematics instruction in secondary schools. The Education Commission of the States faulted the primary and secondary schools for teaching too little about anything." "The college boards blame the high schools for inadequately preparing youth for college. The Business Higher Education Forum saw higher education as unable to train skilled managers and technicians for the industrial workforce. Numerous data sources have shown the glaring deficiencies of the present educational system in educating minority youth to participate in science and engineering fields." The trend becomes especially disturbing when the statistics are viewed vis-a-vis minorities. "Between 1980 and 1984, undergraduate enrollment increased 40% for Asian Americans, 12% for Hispanics, and 1% for Native Americans. Black undergraduate enrollment declined 4%. Looking further at indicators of achievement the results are even more serious. The average score on the ACT showed Blacks at the bottom. The

average composite score was 18.8, 19.7 for White Americans, 19.6 for Asian Americans, 16.5 for Hispanics, 15.2 for Mexican Americans, 14.4 for Native Americans, and 13 for Black Americans. The same trend exists for SAT scores." Expressing the same concerns and reservations Blacks and minorities have with regards to testing, Dr. Cole warned that "regardless of the reasons, it is not gratifying that Black Americans score so poorly on ACT and SAT examinations." Dr. Cole Further described the plight of our black youth, "who is in danger of becoming a lost generation. The outlook for l l-to-25 year olds is not especially encouraging. Unemployment for black teenagers is twice that for white teenagers. One-fifth of black you th in the 18-19 age group have not completed high school and are entering adulthood and the job market without the basic skills to compete for employment of any kind requiring at least a high school degree, not to mention science and engineering. As a consequence, many of these young people will be plagued all their lives by periodic or chronic unemployment or underemployment." "Disturbing things are happening to black male youth. Black on black crime is increasing. When one male kills another, two are lost to society; one is dead, the other is incarcerated. And although the professional career ladder for Blacks is improving, there is still a double standard that makes it extra difficult to be successful in the corporate world." continued on page twenty-one

Dr. Howard G. Adams Luncheon Speaker, April 1 7 Executive Director of the National Consortium for Graduate Degrees for Minorities in Engineering, Inc.

Dr. Adams' address focused on education from the point of view of "studying the cobwebs that veil the educational process for our youth." The task, then, is to "trace back to the spiders and obliterate them." Dr. Adams asserted that once the cobwebs have been removed, our young people can launch forward, be trained successfully for meaningful employment, and lead productive lives. Dr. Adams painted a dismal picture of Blacks in the educational process. "Sixty-nine percent of black students who start the 7th grade will finish high school. Of that 69%, 50% will be in academically slow classes where they learn virtually nothing. Only 7% of that number will be in college preparatory programs that lend themselves to science and mathematics. Only 19% of those who graduate will make a C or better average." "In 1976, 33% of our high school youth attended college. ln 1985, the number dropped to 27%. That means that fewer Blacks are in B.S .. M.S .. and Ph.D. programs. Even fewer Blacks are in the sciences, from where much of the country's leadership come. 11ow did this happen? 11ow did we get in this crippling position?" According to Dr. Adams, three things have destroyed Blacks in the educational process: I. People .have low expectations of Blacks: they think we will fail. 2. Blacks are tracked in mickey-mouse

courses, such as band, singing, and sports, which have been grossly overemphasized. 3. The educational process itself has not worked well for Blacks, because we are not treated fairly. We are blocked from partic Âˇ ipating fully in a wide range of curriculum and extracurricular activities. We are more readily sent home than other students. "These factors make Blacks look like they are anti-the system, when in actuality the system is anti-Blacks." Dr. Adams challenged NOBCChE to remedy this deplorable situation. 11e challenged NOBCChE "to find the spiders who spin the cobwebs that have created a system where young Blacks no longer hunger and thirst for education, where we used to steal it. 11ow did we get so far off base?" Dr. Adams suggested a plan of action to make the spiders' effort to spin cobwebs around us futile. 11e admonished that we start by being more concerned about early intervention in the educational process so that we can get our young people on track towards excellence in education. "We have to form more partnerships in the policy-making process by going into the schools and influencing the curriculum as well as the budgets. There must be a black voice in the educational arena." "We have to influence the quality of teaching in our communities. Sixty-three

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The President's Corner - A Message From By Philip Merchant, Jr., PhD This past year has been a very good year for NOBCChE. At the beginning of the year we proposed an ambitious Action Plan, one that was designed to help NOBCChE grow to become a recognized National Service Organization. The Phase I Plan included these programs: '¢- Programs to enlarge our membership '¢- Professional development workshops and regional meetings

not only our lives, but also our childrens' lives. We should have as a primary focus of effort the lives of our children. Recent studies have shown alarming trends in the education of black children that must be reversed. In 1975, 34% of black graduates of high schools went on to college. Ten years later, the number had shrunk to 26%. In 1980, only 70% of the black population between ages 18-24 had completed high

Dr. Philip Merchant, Jr... is a Senior Staff Chemist and Technical (Group) leader of the Demulsifier Marketing and Technical Service Group, at Exxon Chemical Company. He received his BS and MS degrees, with honors, from Texas Southern University, where he majored in Chemistry and minored in Mathematics. His Doctorate in Chemistry was earned, also with honors, at the University of Houston.

'¢- Enhance NOBCChE merchandising '¢- Promotion of networking and teambuilding '¢- Student Chapter Program We feel that all of these programs have been successful. We have now completed making plans for Phase II, to be carried out in 87-88. I would like to give you, the Membership, a preview of our Phase II programs.

Creation of a National Office The preliminary work being completed, the Board will be working diligently to make this goal a reality.

school, compared to 83% for Whites and 59% for Hispanics. The educational disparity between non-Whites and Whites is increasing. The gap is greater in the technical disciplines.

Adopt-a-School Programs Providing and ensuring a quality education for minority students should remain our highest priority. We have composed a School Program Manual that can serve as a guide for our work in the schools. The Manual will be sent to all our membership.

Congressional Contacts

Joint Program with Black Executive Exchange

Clarence Tucker and I have formulated an active program that will allow us to interface with the Black Caucus in matters with scientific elements. We need to have input to the legislation that will affect

This effort is designed to establish a mentor-student relationship between NOBCChE members and students showing potential. on a national scale. continued on page thirteen

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Echoes

Browne

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Of concern to minority communities are the staggering statistics of minority students who are dropping out of school. This means, then, that our students are not being prepared for the changing careers of the future. Further. while minority enrollment in schools and institutions of higher learning is decreasing, minority enrollment in penal institutions is on the rise disproportionally. These and other issues were among the topics discussed during the four-day forum format. Each forum lasted approximately two hours. Forum A, The Future, featured a discussion by Forum Chair Dr. Manuel Perry, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, California, of the various social, technical, economic, and political changes that will impact the nation and especially the minority community. In Forum B, The Future of Work and the Minority Community, a panel of industry representatives discussed how the job market and related skills are changing and the impact of these changes on today's and tomorrow's workforce. Panelists were moderator Mr. James E. Evans, LLNL; Ms. Regina Caines, Polaroid Corporation; Mr. Charles Johnson. Exxon Company, U.S.A.; Mr. Dashiell Meeks, San Diego Gas and Electric Company; and Mr. Ted Michels, LLNL, In Forum C, The future of Education and the Minority Community, a panel of educators addressed the changing issues related to education and the impact of future educational changes on the minority community. Panelists were moderator Dr. Richard Evans, Alabama A&'M University; Dr. Ruby Cremachi-Schwimmer, Lincoln Prepartory High School; Mrs. Helen Harris, Contra Costa Community College; and Dr. George Whaley, San Jose State University. In Forum D, Possibilities and Strategies for Tomorrow, panelists described current programs and strategies that are effective in preparing students and workers for tomorrow's challenges. Panelists were moderator Mr. Darrell Davis, Drug Enforcement Administration; Mrs. Barbara Daniels, Claremont Middle School; Mr. Andy Shaw, TRW, Inc.; Mr. Percy Steele, Bay Area Urban League; and Dr. Shirley Thornton, California State Department of Education. Among the many strategies and possibilities for the future discussed by panelists are

the following three that panelists felt should be implemented immediately: I. Schools with high minority enrollment should establish the same expectations for excellence as other schools. 2. Businesses should adopt schools, especially elementary schools, and work to improve the quality of education for young minority students. 3. Minority organizations should petition local and state school boards in all school districts to upgrade instructions and curricula provided to all students A pilot activity at NOBCChE '87, the Forum Series was a welcomed addition to the conference program. Participants rated all four forums eight or higher on a scale of one to ten, ten being the highest. ':A tremendous, unsurpassable, and knowledgeable eye-opener, the session was excellently prepared and conducted." "The ideas generated should lead to activities that will be helpful in getting more youngsters interested in science as a career." "Nore time needs to be dedicated to these topics." With evaluation ratings and comments such as these, the Forum Series may be an ongoing additional feature at future conferences. Professional Development Series A second feature of the conference that offered food for thought was the Professional Development Series. The first workshop in the series was Power and Influence in Organizational Life by Dr. Ron Brown, Banks Brown, Inc. Dr. Brown defined power as "the ability to impose one's personal preferences on the behavior of others;" "the ability to set the terms;" "the ability to impose a dominant reality that is advantageous to one's self interest." Dr. Brown stated that "struggling for acceptance has caused Blacks to lose power and control." Blacks must develop a topdown mind set instead of a bottom-up mind set to increase their power base. Additionally, Blacks must develop skills of subordination and create a viable black network in their employment organizations to effect promotions. He suggested the following to develop a power base: define your power base and your turf; determine your support base; identify your authority and your expertise; know what charisma you have so continued on page nineteen

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youth and to reverse the decline of appropriate role models for our youth: I. While we are working for parity. or something through special programs, let's petition the local school boards in all of the school districts to vigorously upgrade instruction and curricula. This would be democratic. This effort would include all of us - educators, chief executive officers, surrogate parents, and all who say they wish to properly educate all american youth. Let's use our influence in our local communities where it can really be effective. 2. Let's develop a crash program to help K-12 school districts get our job done for target group students. They haven't succeeded yet, and it doesn't look good. The education of american youth is everyone's responsibility. The denial of equal access, opportunity, and resources is regressive, undemocratic and leads to chaos. 3. If you are a donor to special programs that seek to help target group students attain parity, place yourself in the role of a target group parent and/or worker, and reexamine your commitment; provide your resources in a new ten-fold way. Realize that target group students are asked to give of themselves in a similar manner as all Americans are asked in support of their country. Don't provoke them into apathy, noncompliance, and disgust. Remember, target group students are victims; they have been negatively imprinted.

President's Corner ~

4. Attach riders to your support given to colleges and universities that they document active recruitment, admissions, retention, and graduation programs at their schools. Don't just give money without auditing it. The same principle relates to graduate programs and the democratization of faculties. 5. Chief Executive Officers support your activities and make them work as you do your business projects. Whether you know it or believe it, your involvement in the so-called effort should be big business with big support, and much more involvement. Successful projects get the attention of the big bosses and/or their intelligent surrogates. Use intelligent problem-solving oriented surrogates, not public relations types. 6. Minority enginering programs and other programs directors must subscribe to the value of democratic programs, both in their interactions at their localities and with their donors. They are not 'dusters' or 'kickers', but hopefully helpers. Mr. Browne closed by reminding us of how desperately our participation in the educational process is needed, and as an ongoing involvement. In particular, he asked us to keep in mind the uphill battle our black youth must overcome to prepare successfully for mathematics, science, and engineering living and being educated in the inner city.

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Employment Clearing-House The establishment of ajob-finding service that will serve the Membership will be the responsibility of our Executive Secretary. Joint Programs with ACS Co-operative efforts, conducted with the American Chemical Society, are designed to attain two goals: (I) To increase our visibility and or credibility, and (2) To maximize the use of our manpower. I feel this is a very positive step forward for NOBCChE. Student Chapters At the National Convention we approved the formation of student chapters. The program to increase the number of these new student chapters will provide a source of future members, serve as a forum for student guidance and motivation, and will promote

advanced degree levels for college undergraduates.

International Affairs Programs for sharing scientific knowledge with Africa, Egypt, and other Third-World nations. will be developed. We can provide valuable scientific expertise for programs to improve services provided in these nations that have so many needs. We can provide assistance in their developing science, agriculture, and chemical processing areas. After a very successful Phase I effort, I feel that we are shifting into highgear, for Phase II. With your continued effort and support we will succeed. Thanks to all of you who made 86-87 a year of success and growth. I know that 87-88 will be an even bigger success with your help and participation.

NOBCChE '87 Audio/Video Tapes Now Available

PARTICULATE COMPOSITE (CLAY) RESEARCH ASSOCIATE

By Gwendolyn L. Evans, Newsletter Editor, Western Region Several audio and video tapes of various activities at NOBCChE '87, held this past April in San Francisco, are now available for ordering. Below is a list of those tapes. To order tapes, please remit $9.00 for audio tapes and $12.00 for video tapes in a money order or check made payable to NOBCChE and send to: Ms. Winifred Burks Executive Secretary NOBCChE NOBCChE '87 Tapes P.O. Box 1768 Pleasanton, CA 94566 Please specify clearly which audio tapes and which video tapes you are ordering. If you need more information, call Ms. Burks at (415) 422-6365 (wk); (415) 462-2288 (hm), or Mrs. Gwendolyn Evans at (415) 442-3830 (wk); (415) 945-8079 (hm).

Audio Tapes A-l. Massey/Adams Audio Tape Side l (~ 30 min.): Dr. Walter E. Massey, April l 5 Luncheon Speaker Vice President of the University of Chicago for Research, and for Argonne National Laboratory Side 2 (~ 30 min.) Dr. ffoward 0. Adams, April l 7 Luncheon Speaker Executive Director of the National Consortium for Graduate Degrees for Minorities in Engineering, lnc. A-2. Contemporary Topics in Physics Audio Tape(~ 60 min.) Panel discussion by panel chair Dr. Charles Harper, California State University, Hayward; Dr. William A. Lester, Jr,, Dr. Harry L. Morrison, and Dr. Steven L. Richardson, University of California, Berkeley; and Dr. James Stith, United States Military Academy, West Point A-3. Entrepreneurship Audio Tapes(~ 2 h, 15 min.), April 15 Professional Development Series featuring moderator Dr. Frank S, Greene, Jr,, ZeroOne Systems, Inc.; Mr. Roy Clay, Rod-L-Electronics; Dr. James Porter, Energy and Environmental Engineering, Inc.; and Mr. Peter Thompson, Opportunity Capital Corporation A-4. The future of Work and the Minority Community, Audio Tapes,(~ 2 h), April 15 Forum Series B featuring moderator Mr. James E. Evans, Lawrence Livermore

National Laboratory (LLNL); Ms. Regina Caines, Polaroid Corporation; Mr. Charles T. Johnson, Exxon Company, U.S.A.; Mr. Dashiell Meeks, San Diego Gas and Electric Company; and Mr. Ted Michels, LLNL A-5. The future of Education and the Minority Community, Audio Tapes, (~ 3.5 h), April 16 Forum Series C featuring moderator Dr. Richard Evans, Alabama A & M University; Dr. Ruby CremachiSchwimmer, Lincoln Preparatory High School; and Mrs. Helen Harris, Contra Costa Community College A-6. Possibilities and Strategies for Tomorrow, Audio Tapes, (~ 2 h), April 17 Forum Series D featuring moderator Mr. Darrell Davis, Drug Enforcement Administration; Mrs. Barbara Daniels, Claremont Middle School; Mr. Andy Shaw, TRW, Inc.; Mr. Percy Steele, Bay Area Urban League; and Dr. Shirley Thornton, California State Department of Education

Video Tapes V-l. Awards Banquet Video Tape -

A Research Associate Pos1t1on is available in the Composite Materials and Structures .., Center (CMSC) for an individual with composite

mate r1 Is/ chem 1cal engi nee ring/surf ace science and engineering experience and training. This position involves conducting experimental research on clay surfaces characterization, surface chemistry and particulate composite fabrication and evaluation A PhD. in engineering or science and relevant experience in surface chemistry, composite materials, or materials engineering is desirable. Excellent English communication skills, both written and verbal, are required. Interested individuals should send a curriculum vitae and the names of three references to Dr. Lawrence T Drzal, Director, Composite Materials and Structures Center, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Ml 48824-1326 is an affirmative action/equal opportunity institution. Effective date of July 1, 1987 to June 30, 1988

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A Research Associate Position is available 1n the Composite Materials and Structures Center (CMSC) for an individual with surface spectroscopy experience in Auger Electron Spectroscopy and X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy This position involves surface and interfacial research related to carbon, polymeric, metal Iic, ceramic and concrete composite materials under the sponsorship of the CMSC. Collaborative research in other materials areas with faculty from across the campus is anticipated also. Part of the effort required for this position is in establishing a central surface spectroscopy facility with the capability to interact with both'On and off campus personnel. A Ph.D. in engineering or science and relevant surface spectroscopy experience is required. Excellent English communications skills, both written and verbal, are required. Interested individuals should send a curriculum vitae and the names of three references to Dr. Lawrence T. Drzal, Director, Composite Materials and Structures Center, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Ml 48824-1326 is an affirmative action/equal opportunity institution. Effective date of July 1, 198 7 to June 30, 1989 \_

The IYOBCChi:, !Yews The NOBCChE News is the official publication of the National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers.

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SURFACE SPECTROSCOPIST / MATERIALS SCIENTIST-ENGINEER

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45 min.), April 16 Featuring Dr. Thomas W. Cole, Jr,, Speaker; Chancellor, West Virginia Board of Regents and Chief Executive Officer, Public Higher Education Systems, West Virginia; and Dr. Ronald E. Goldsberry, Emcee; President and Chief Operating Officer, Parker Chemical Company Awards Banquet Video Tape -unedited version(~ 2 h), April 16 General Business Session II Video Tape (~ 50 min.), April 16 ffenry A. ffill Lecture Video Tape(~ l h), April 16 Featuring Dr. Samuel P. Massie, Professor of Chemistry, United States Naval Academy The future of Education and the Minority Community, Video Tapes (~ l.5 h), April 16 Forum Series C featuring Moderator Dr. Richard Evans, Alabama A & M University; Dr. Ruby CremachiSchwimmer, Lincoln Preparatory High School; and Mrs. Helen Harris, Contra Costa Community College

Officers President Exec. Board Chairperson Treasurer

NOBCChE News Editor

Mr. Clarence Tucker

Southwest Ms. Rosanne C. Anderson Martin Marietta Energy Systems, Inc.

Mutiu 0. Fagbayi Corporate Business Research Eastman Kodak Company Rochester. NY 14650 (716) 724-3574

-or-

NOBCChE NEWS P.O. Box 15499 Rochester. NY 14-615 Secretary Historian Archive

Ms. Regina Clark

Mr. Christopher Kinard 673 Hillgrove ct. Cincinnati, OH 45246 Dr. Bobby Wilson Chemistry Department

Texas Southern University Houston, TX 77004 West

Mr. James Evans University of California Livermore, CA 94550

The NOBCChE was established in 1972 with the objectives

of developing programs to assist Blacks in realizing their full potential in the fields of chemistry and chemical engineering. The organization's programs include establishing information and consultation services for the

Black community, recruitment of more Blacks in the Science and Engineering professions. promoting active participation in scientific research. and increasing the

Dr. Samuel van Winbush

representation of Blacks on Advisory Boards.

c/o Mrs. Minnie Clayton, Archivist Robert W. Woodruft Library Atlanta University Center

The organization depends upon existing talent among Blacks in these fields to aid in the accomplishment of its objectives.

Atlanta, GA 30310

Regional Chairpersons Northeast

Dr. Charles A. Washington Martin Marietta Energy Systems, Inc.

P.O. Box Y. Oak Ridge, TN 37830 Midwest

Dr. Philip Merchant

P.O. Box Y. Bldg. 9766 MS-7 Oak Ridge, TN 37830

Southeast

Dr. Denise Barnes

AT&T Bell Labs. Allentown. PA 18103

Full NOBCChE membership, including NOBCChE NEWS. is $35/year: associate membership is $15/year. Persons desiring membership and activities information. as well as new members forwarding dues, should write to the treasurer-address is given above.

People In the News By Gwendolyn L. Evans, Newsletter Editor, Western Region

Dr. Samuel P. Massie, Recipient of the Henry A. Hill Award for his outstanding contributions to the field of chemistry and his untiring efforts to support science among Blacks

What more befitting for the premiere of this new column than to feature the recipients of the coveted NOBCChE awards presented at the Annual Awards Banquet of NOBCChE '87 this past spring in San Francisco. Dr. Massie is professor of chemistry at the United States Naval Academy. His research is in the synthesis of drugs, He reported on anticancer studies in Zurich, Switzerland, in 1955, and in 1982 he and two of his academy students, along with colleagues at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, received invention awards from the United States Army for their studies on drugs against gonorrhea, malaria, and meningitis. In 1984, a patent was issued on this work. Dr. Massie continues to work with his students on drugs against herpies and antinerve gas agents, as well. In addition to his work in the United States Naval Academy, Dr. Massie is the chairman of the Maryland State Board for Community Colleges and the Governor's Science Advisory Council. He is also a member of the Board of Trustees of the College of Wooster, Ohio. Dr. Massie has served as chairman of the Chemistry Department at the United States Naval Academy ( 1977-1981 ), Langston University, and Fisk University, and chairman

of the Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department at Howard Universtiy. In 1974, he served as chairman of the Division of Chemical Education at the American Chemical Society. From 1963-66. he was president of North carolina College at Durham and associate program director of the National Science Foundation from 1960-63. From I 953-S4, Dr. Massie served as president of the Oklahoma Academy of Science. He was national president of Beta Kappa Chi Scientific Society from 1958-60. Dr. Massie has lectured widely at colleges and universities across the country, including Purdue, Lehigh. Northern Colorado, and Ohio State Universities and Ripon College in Wisconsin. He was a distinguished visiting professor at Dillard University and the University of Maryland. Eastern Shore. A visiting scientist in chemistry, he was a Piedmont lecturer, a Julian lecturer, a Dreyfus lecturer to UNCF colleges. and an eminent scholar at Virginia State University. Among his many honors, Dr. Massie received the National Community Leadership Award from the National Society of Black Engineers, the Distinguished Achievement Citation from Iowa State, the Nation's Top College Chemistry Teacher Award from the Manufacturing Chemists Association, the continued on page seventeen

Freedom Fund Award from the NAACP, and the Outstanding Professor Award from NOBCChE. Dr. Massie holds a Ph.D. degree from Iowa State University, an M.A. degree from Fisk University, and a B.S. degree from A.M. & N. College of Arkansas. Dr. John A. Watson, Recipient of the Outstanding Teacher Award in recognition of the inspiration and guidance he has provided students throughout his career as a scientist, an educator, and an administrator. Dr. Watson is professor of biochemistry and biophysics at the University of California at San Francisco. He did his graduate training at Illinois Institute of Technology, received his Ph.D. degree from the University of Illinois, and completed his post-doctoral work at Brandeis University, Waltham, Massachusetts. He was hired at the University of (alifomia at San Francisco in 1969 as an assistant professor of biochemistry and biophysics. There, he began his multifaceted career as a science educator. During his career he has served as a teacher. a researcher, and an administrator. Working in the general area of rnetabollic regulations for isopenoid synthesis, Dr. Watson immediately established a research group and has sustained this group over the years, making substantial contributions to the chemical literature. He and his group have published over 50 significant papers. In addition to its scientific merits, this group has provided a forum for many undergraduate medical students to be exposed to important research and broaden their perspective on their health related fields. Dr. Watson also served as assistant and later associate dean of admissions. In this capacity he not only helped students enter the medical profession, but, by virtue of his status as faculty member and his sensitivity to their needs, was a large factor in their retention. In recognition of Dr. Watson's many contributions to science and to education, the University of California at San Francisco promoted him to full professorship status at this institution. Dr. Reginald Mitchell, Recipient of the Percy L. Julian Award for his experimental

and theoretical advances in flame chemistry and coal combustion. Dr. Mitchell received his B.5.Ch.E. degree from the University of Denver, his M.S. degree from the New Jersey Institute of Technology, and his Sc.D. degree from MIT. His doctoral thesis work, "Nitric Oxide Formation During Combusion", was supervised by internationally recognized Dr. Adel Sarofim. Dr. Mitchell's doctoral research work resulted in the most recognized and widely read series of papers on the chemistry and structure of diffusion flames, the flames type that is characteristic of practical combustion systems. Results of his experimental studies continued on page twenty-two

PHYSICALORGANIC CHEMIST The Tennessee Valley Authority's National Fertilizer Development Center in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, is seeking an individual with a Ph.D. in physicalorganic chemistry with experience in both solid and solution phase reaction kinetics. Experience in HPLC, 31 P NMR, GC/MS, andorganophosphorus and pesticide chemistry is highly desirable. The individual will be involved in research to develop nitrification and urease inhibitors to increase the efficiency of nitrogen fertilizers and in the development of pesticide waste degradation technology for use by fertilizer dealers. This is a temporary one-year appointment at a salary of $30,660 per year. If you are qualified and eager to contribute to this vital program, please send your resume with social security number and citizenship to: TENNESSEE VALLEY AUTHORITY Employment Branch BCC0303 240MIB Knoxville, TN 37902 EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. TVA may consider for appointment only U.S. citizens and others eligible for pay-

ment under applicable statues.

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Massey

continued from page five

in technical areas is no longer simply an argument of affirmative.action, or fairness and equity, or equal opportunity. Now the argument can be tied more directly to one of national need. The nation requires more minorities to enter scientific and technical fields simply to meet our human resource needs." "What can be done? National programs and statewide programs are needed. We need more federal and state support, which has been gradually curtailed. It's time that we Blacks, black scientists, engineers, and mathematicians ask not what the government can do for us, but what we can do for ourselves." Dr. Massey challenged NOBCChE to set a specific goal for preparing minority youth to compete first at home, nationally, and internationally. He challenged us to design a program with specific and measureable results, one that requires individual and

Adams

continued from page eight

percent o(our black students currently attend predominantly minority schools in the inner cities where many teachers are not certified. The better teachers are at the suburban schools. We have to be active at school board meetings to reverse this process." "It is incumbent on us to get the right information to our students so that they can make sound choices about their careers. Get the resources to them so that they can move forward promptly. We have to change the perception for them that there is something hard about mathematics, science, and engineering. We have to make them know that this is the direction of the job market; that it is valuable to be in the sciences." "finally, we have to make sure our young people understand they have worth. Too many of our youth spend their lives hearing nothing but negatives about themselves and their race. We have to let them know that we came from a long line of

organizational commitment to help develop individual youngsters. Dr. Massey suggested, for example, NOBCChE's being responsible for having one black student among the five top Westinghouse Science Talent'search finalists in the next five years. He encouraged us to start now by seeking potential black youngsters in the 6th and 7th grades and following them through their junior and high school career. "Give them the support they require to develop to their fullest potential mentoring, advice, financial support. Find them research and study experience for the summer. Support. nurture, and guide the talent we know exist." Dr. Massey closed by reminding us that Blacks are a visible asset to this country, as it competes in the international market place. It should be NOBCChE's challenge to make this fact known by unrelentingly continuing to help Blacks be the assets they are.

proud people who justly have a right to be here and to demand equity in all aspects of the social fabric in which we live." "We cannot let others get away with the notion that equity in excellence is not possible. The pursuit of excellence is not contingent on the color of one's skin. It is based on the fact that we get out of the way and give people the opportunity to launch forward. No one thirsts excellence more than we do. It is education's responsibility to take people to the highest level of competency." Dr. Adams closed by emphasizing our responsibility, organizationally and individually, in ensuring that the education process fully meet the needs of our youth. "If our young black students are unable to survive the 21st century, it won't be their fault. We will have failed to serve them well. Therefore, it is our responsibility to get rid of the spiders who generate the cobwebs that impede the progress of our youth and prevent them from being productive."

Echoes

continued from page twelve

that you can influence subordinates to do things that will enhance your power base. Dr. Brown explained that power is very natural and can be cultivated by anyone who can determine and achieve power objectives. He suggested developing a plan, determining who the primary players are and what the major issues are, and then deciding on your power approach style. The second workshop in the Professional Development Series focused on Entrepreneurship. Dr. Frank S. Greene, Jr., ZeroOne Systems, Inc., moderated a panel discussion by Mr. Roy Clay, Rod-L-Electronics; Dr. James Porter, Energy and Environmental Engineering, Inc.; and Mr. Peter Thompson, Opportunity Capital Corporation. These hightechnology entrepreneurs talked about how they ventured into business and the myriad of problems involved in owning your own business. A major problem, once the specific type of business is decided, is obtaining adequate financing. Dr. Thompson cautioned against going to a venture capitalist for funding. He advised shopping around carefully to find the best match to avoid having the venture capitalist end up with control of your company. Another major problem is the lack of expertise in marketing and legal affairs. Panelists suggested hiring experts in these fields, if possible, or acquiring the necessary experience before going into business. The third workshop in the Professional Development Series was entitled Working Your Way Through the Corporate ffierarchy, by Mr. J. Michael Payne, Exxon Chemical Company, and Mr. Ernest H. Urquhart, Ortho Pharmaceutical Corporation. Working your way through the corportate hierarchy involves four primary steps: getting on board, developing strategies for career development, establishing a program for continuous improvement, and maintaining personal well-being. When seeking employment with a company/organization, panelists advised that you "know" the company before you interview. Do your homework to be familiar with the company's history and goals. Further, plan to have a successful and

impressionable interview by using effective interview skills. Network by contacting resources within the organization to learn valuable information and to have others lobby on your behalf. Finally, be clear about your intended direction with the company, i.e., are you seeking a job or a career. When determining strategies for career development you must first know the power bases - yours and others within the company: what they are, where they are, and how your power base fits into the hierarchy. Additionally, panelists recommended taking an active role in the organization's competitive positioning. To do so, you have to have high visibility and high impact, take risks, and know the politics of the companywho gets ahead and why and what's important to the business. Your personal marketing should be a part of your strategy. Have positive visibility. Create a favorable image. Practice effective communication skills, and develop good problem-solving techniques. Coupled with personal marketing is continuous improvement of your skills and knowledge. Upgrade and update both your job skills/knowlege and those that you have developed to survive in the workplace. The latter will enable you to "read" the environment with acuity. Finally, your personal well-being is of utmost importance. There must be harmony and balance in your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual state-of-being; otherwise, you will be unable to handle effectively the work and survive in the work environment. Presenters concluded by advising participants to know "where you sit" in the overall scheme of the company. The Professional Development Series, like the Forum Series, was highly rated by participants who complimented the excellent speakers, organized presentations, and informative, topical subject matter. Participants overwhelmingly requested an encore of professional development activities at future meetings.

Massie

continued from page six

During the third petiod, 1966 to present, when the human rights struggles and equal employment opportunities made it law to hire Blacks, new and unusual opportunities began to occur. Black scholars advanced in major institutions. Black scholars were surfacing in black institutions. Blacks were producing outstanding publications. Industry and government were recognizing black scientists for responsible position~. Tragically, however, one disturbing feature in the history of the slow progression of Blacks in science was becoming evident. As Blacks have rightfully taken advantage of opportunities in education, government, and industry to grow in their fields, the number of black teachers in black schools has been depleted. Where, then, are our black role models? We are now in the fourth period, the present henceforth, where Blacks are at crossroads. While individual opportunities have improved and increased down through the years, however little proportionately, group opportunities for Blacks are in crisis. There is a shortage of good black students; the dropout rate is alarming. There is a conspicuous shortage of black students participating in those local, regional, and national sc.ience activities that open doors to the renowned institutions of higher learning. Too few black homes stimulate students toward science subjects. The percent of Blacks in graduate school is down. There is a shortage of good black teachers in black schools and universities. Black universities are threatening extinction because of lack of funds, refused accreditation, or impending mergers. These abject conditions, running parallel with the increasing recognition of Black scientists create a dichotomy that portends peril for future progress. Where do

we go from here? Let's go to Dookey Chase's! This brings us to the message of Dr. Massie's Henry A. Hill Lecture. In 1977, Henry A. Hill, a friend of Dr. Massie, took office as president of the American Chemical Society (ACS), the first black chemist to achieve this honor. In the Fall of 1977, Dr. Hill attended the Society's National Meeting in New Orleans. He had the top suite at the Hyatt Regency on the 44th floor. All weekend, Dr. Hill was busy with ACS business and in meetings throughout the day. On Sunday of that weekend, he telephoned Dr. Massie and said simply: Sam, let's go to Dookey Chase's, Dookey Chase is an outstanding seafood restaurant in a black ghetto of New Orleans. In that simple remark of Dr. Hill, Dr. Massie sees a two-fold philosophy. First as Blacks we must achieve so we, too, can get to the 44th floor. To achieve that goal we have to remain determined despite the obstacles. We cannot quit but instead must work hard to do the best we can with what we have, To stay on top we must continue to study to keep current in our respective fields. We must write, publish, and attend professional meetings. Secondly, when we reach the top and are at the height of our successes, LET'S NOT fORGET OUR ROOTS, from whence we came, but return from time to time to Dookey Chase. Let's go back to the ghetto to help others, especially our black youth. Let's be role models for them in hopes of reversing dropout statistics, in hopes of putting great teaching minds back in our black schools, in hopes of having our success as black scholarly scientists influence our yourth toward careers in science. This is what Dr. Massie means and implores when he says: let's go to Dookey Chase's. This is the challenge he proposes for us all when we reach the top.

NOBCChE '87 Proceedings By Gwendolyn L. Evans, Newsletter Editor, Western Region Technical papers for the proceedings of the 14th Annual National Conference of NOBCChE, held this past April in San Francisco, have been submitted to the conference's technical committee and are currently being prepared to be published. The publications committee for NOBCChE '87 projects distribution of the proceedings by the end of this year. If you registered for the conference, you

will automatically receive a copy. If you did not register for the conference but would like a copy, please remit $50.00 in a money order or check made payable to NOBCChE and send to: Mrs. Gwendolyn L. Evans, Chair Publications Committee/NOBCChE '87 211 Santa Fe Drive, Walnut Creek, CA 94598 If you need more information regarding the proceedings, call Mrs, Evans at (415) 4223830 (wk); (415) 945-8079 (hm).

Cole

continued from page seven

"Being aggressive, for example, is not necessarily a good attribute for black males in some s.ettings; it makes the power strueture nervous. What appears to be more important is whether he is articulate and well-groomed, and whether he can adjust to the lifestyles of the majority. This places an additional burden on black males, such that instincts to be aggressive as part of the natural requirements to advance are suppressed." "These are problems of major proportion that must. be redressed if minority youth are to be adequately prepared to take their place in american society. By the year 2000, one-third of the elementary and secondary students in this country will be from minority groups, and most will be poor, This is the pool from which college students will be drawn and from which most of our workforce will be selected. We must initiate a determined effort now if we are to significantly improve the education of these students, especially in critical thinking skills, in language, mathematics, science, and engineering. Further delay will almost certainly ensure an impenetrable core of uneducated individuals who will not be able to contribute to America's economy in its efforts to remain internationally competitive," Dr. Cole admitted that he took no pleasure in sounding alarms; however that he wanted to emphasize the enormity of the problems at hand facing our younger generation. He strongly feels that the problems can be solved and that we must all be part of the solution. "The steady growth of a group of permanently disadvantaged students can be addressed successfully only when successful members of minority groups join together with others to help those who are unsuccessful. And ways must be found to address the problems caused by racism and ethnic prejudice that exists in America. Those of us in this room who have achieved some degree of success can leave no better legacy than to ensure that doors that were opened for us do not close behind us." "We have to rethink our educational

system in America from the ground up to accommodate the demographic trends that I talked about and the social issues. We must provide help for the at-risk populations to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to develop the very literacy skills necessary for full and effective participation in our society. We must modify our approaches to education so that children learn to reason more effectively about what they read and write so that they have the thinking skills to analyze and elaborate on and extend the ideas with which they are dealing. They need to know more about their history and the contributions of those who preceded them." "The key is education, and one component of the key is the role that our historically black colleges and universities have played in the education of Blacks. These institutions enroll less than 20% of the blacks enrolled in colleges and universities in this country. But they produce almost 40% of the bachelor degrees received by Blacks in mathematics, science, and engineering. These institutions have a documented record in producing graduates who make significant contributions to science and engineering enterprise in the United States." "Since the founding of this republic, faith has always been placed in the power of education to address the problems of its people and of America in general. It's going to require careful thought and broad vision, but the rewards are enormous." Dr. Cole closed by quoting Frank Graham: 'May our America be a place where democracy is achieved without vulgarity, difference without hate, where the majority is without tyranny and the minority without fear, where the least of these our brethren have the freedom to struggle for freedom, where respect for the past is not reaction, and hope of the future is not revolution:

People In the News

continued from page seventeen

have become standard references for testing various approximate models. Currently, Dr. Mitchell is a technical staff member in the Combustion Research Division at Sandia National Laboratories, Livermore, california, where he was instrumental in establishing the Combustion Research Facility, a laboratory dedicated to the study of combustion science. Through the use of advanced optical techniques and electronic processing, he developed state-ofthe-art instrumentation to study coal combustion phenomena. Students, visiting faculty, and staff from industry and government have spent weeks to months learning the techniques Dr. Mitchell developed, and many research organizations are using his techniques and ideas to investigate combustion phenomena. His widely published research results in more than 30 refereed papers have immediate and long-range significance for understanding the fundamentals of combustion science. He has lectured in Australia, Germany, France, Denmark, England, Canada, and the United States. Dr. Mitchell is the president of the San Francisco Bay Area Chapter of NOBCChE. Miss Christine Grant, Recipient of the Eastman Kodak Company Dr. Theophilus Sorrell Graduate fellowship Miss Grant, Ph.D. candidate in chemical engineering at Georgia Institute of Technology, is working in the area of surface science/ engineering with an interest in the innovative application of surface and colloid science concepts to critical solid/liquid

separation processes involving ultrafines material. Her present research program is specifically focused on separation problem area of mineral ultrafines dewatering. Miss Grant has received several other grants, fellowships, and honors: Georgia Mining and Minerals Research Institute Fellowship; GEM scholar; New York State Regents Scholarship; Brown University Scholarship; National Achievement Scholarship for Outstanding Negro Students; Society of Women Engineers Award; and Outstanding Graduate Student Award. Miss Grant received her Sc.B. degree from Brown University. Mr. Daryl Inniss, Recipient of the Proctor and Gamble Graduate fellowship. Mr. Inniss, Ph.D. candidate in chemistry at UCLA, is interested in physical inorganic chemistry, particularly in studying problems related to biological systems and materials in the solid state. He believes that "solid state chemistry is important in the design of faster, smaller, and more effective electronic devices, such as computers and spectrometers." Mr. Inniss has received several other grants, fellowships, and awards: Graduate Opportunity Fellowship at UCLA for two years; Graduate Affirmative Action Research Grant; UCLA Supplemental Research Grant; Summer Research Fellowship at Washington University, St. Louis; and Harry A. Manken Award at Princeton University. Additionally, he is an instructor in the pre-enrollment program at UCLA. Mr. Inniss received his A.B. degree in chemistry from Princeton University.

CALL FOR PAPERS 15th Annual NOBCChf: National Conference April 4-8, 1988 franklin Plaza Hotel. Philadelphia Pa. We are looking forward to an exciting and stimulating technical program at the 15th Annual NOBCChE National Conference in Philedelphia. Technical sessions and symposia will be organized for all areas of chemistry and chemical engineering Research and Development: analytical; physical; organic; polymer chemistry; catalysis; agriculture; biochemistry; pharamacology; materials science; applied chemistry and chemical engineering; chemical marketing; chemistry and chemical engineering educaiton. Student papers will be integral with the technical program, and $500

will be awarded for the best undergarduate student paper. All papers are welcome. To submit a Paper, send a titles indicating your intent and suggest an appropriate session category. Approximately 20 minutes will be allotted for presentation and discussion. Please send all titles by December I, 1987 to: Dr. George Collins, Technical Co-Chairman, Hoechst Celanese, 86 Morris Avenue, Summit, New Jersey 07901 Please include your name, address, and telephone number.

Front Street

continued from page two

a social function; divided into technical sessions, discussion forums, as well as hospitality hours. I challenge those who believe in Myth #I to attend a Gordon .Conference, where technical discussions fill the morning, and basketball, skiing, and food and drink fill the afternoon. Yet you'll never hear the criticism that this conference "has too much partying". In fact this kind of activity is accepted as conducive to an environment for "scholarly pursuit". Do you smell a double standard? Check it out next time you start knocking NOBCChE, Myth #2: The technical sessions at the annual NOBCChE conference are second rate at best and my company would not support me attending the annual meeting because of this. At the 14th Annual Conference held in San Francisco this year (which by the way has set a standard for future meetings), there were over I 00 papers presented which could have been presented at any technical conference, There were over 20 papers alone from AT&T Bell Laboratories, which happens to be the premier research institution in the world. How many times have some of us said to ourselves "since it's NOBCChE, I don't have to prepare much" or "those folks aren't that sharp anyway, so I can wave my hand th rough?" Well my friends, I've gone to a lot of American Chemical Society (ACS), American Vacuum Society (AVS), and photochemistry conferences and there seems to be a higher percentage of ill-prepared and nebulous talks than what I've seen at the NOBCChE conferences. As a member of the technical committee for next year's meeting, I can assure you the quality of the speakers will be first rate, and that any garbage sent to the proceedings for publication will end up as garbage! I have a colleague who one year did not take the preparation of his talk at NOBCChE seriously, and thus looked pretty disorganized not only in front of his fellow scientists but also his employers. If you don't take NOBCChE seriously, or any organization you belong to for that matter, then neither will your employer, and hence they will be reluctant to send you. By discounting the technical aspects of NOBCChE, you become a hypocrit to yourself, your degree, and your

profession, and to all the Black children who aspire to be scientists, because you really must believe the whispers from those empty corridors that say "Blacks can't do good science". So don't come "half-step'in" to the next conference; someone may call your bluff. Myth #3: I don't need to participate in NOBCChE because I can get the same level of satisfaction through the ACS. These are the same people who would prefer to go to a medical doctor from Harvard, when there is a more than qualified person from Howard's medical school. Yes, the ACS does offer a larger variety of technical papers, a collection of the name people in the field and an industrial exhibition which is only rivaled by the annual Pittsburg conference, By all means, I encourage all to attend the ACS and other conferences, for they are important to one's professional growth, But when most of you return from this year's ACS conference in New Orleans, for which it is estimated less that I% of its membership is Black, do you really believe that the ACS will address your concerns of racism in the workplace, how minorities can survive the rigors of graduate school, or what is the state of chemical research of our brothers in Ethiopia, Kneya, or the carribean? Do you really believe that the ACS can help ou in encouraging your child or other Black children to aspire to technical careers? Finally do you really believe that an organization as huge s the ACS is going to steer you into the larger network of Black scientists; a network from which we not only draw information, but more often draw strength and reassurance as scientists that we can make significant contributions to the fields of chemistry and chemical engineering? If you really and truly can say "yes", then maybe NOBCChE has nothing to offer. As John Donne has written, "No man is an island, everyman is part of the whole ... for whom the bell tolls, it tolls for thee". Now that a few of the myths have been dispelled, let me try to answer several of the questions most often posed by our members. Question #I: Why is there an organization for Black Chemists and does the organization only welcome Blacks? continued on next page

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NOBCChE was founded over fifteen years ago by four Black scient.ists who were concerned about the number of minorities in technical fields, with the emphasis on chemistry and chemical engineering and the education of minority youth to math and science. These goals are similar to the Chinese-American Society which meets during every national ACS meeting. At their meetings. technical papers are presented, and discussions of educational and financial issues as they relate to the Chinese-American community ensue. The same goes for NOBCChE. All are invited to our meetings. and we welcome all to become involved in the issues that NOBCChE as an organization addresses. The point is that NOBCChE's mission is to help Blacks to achieve their best through science, and if that help is a hand that is red, white or yellow, we welcome that help Uust as long as we do not lose are focus!) Question #2: I really do not have the time to attend alot of meetings or serve on any committees. but I do want to contribute to the organization. How can I? First. let me say that you get out of something only what you put into it, and the same goes for NOBCChE. If you don't care about NOBCChE, well then ... Second. there are little things that take little time which help the organization. For example, if your company has a summer program for minority students, call your friends and pass on the information. That one call might give a Black teenage and experience in science that may open other possibilities for his future. You

might also pass the name of your institution's affirmative action representative on to the proper channels in NOBCChE, and thus the organization has established another valuable contact. Better yet, you might pass this newsletter on to a colleague and get them to join. These are just some of the "little things"; you may even get bolder and mail in a contribution to establish a national office for NOBCChE or for the FiveYear Plan. All it takes is a little concern and a little courage. And nobody likes a wimp. Question #3: Can NOBCChE help me find a job? At all NOBCChE meetings, there are industrial representatives willing to discuss employment opportunities. Furthermore, NOBCChE's conference attendees span the spectrum from industry, government, and academia. Take the time to meet these people; the contacts you develop today could be the keys to job opportunities tomorrow. As we have this stroll down Front Street, I hope that this prolonged discourse and exercise in bloodletting has made you stop and reflect just a bit. With next year's conference eight months away, we must reinvigorate ourselves to bring to Philadelphia a spirit that can break the schackels of the Myths, and give us a sense of renewed creativity. Let us get those experiments cranking, those papers written, and rekindle the flame of curiosity in our youth. Empowerment is the word for NOBCChE; creativity is the key. Hope to see you down on Front Street in '88 !!!

EMORY UNIVERSITY. The Department of Chemistry of Emory University invites applications for an Assistant Professor position (tenure track) in Inorganic Chemistry beginning in the Fall of 1988. The successful candidate is expected to demonstrate excellence and creativity in research and teaching. Preference will be given to individuals whose research interests complement those of the present inorganic faculty, but all interested persons are encouraged to apply. Each applicant should .send a curriculum vitae and a statement of research plans, and arrange to have three letters of recommendation sent to Dr. Luigi G. Marzilli, Department of Chemistry, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia 30322. Review of applications will begin November 15, 1987. Emory University in and EO/AA employer

Kodak Summer College Interns Make Donation to Rochester NOBCChE's "Adopt-a-School" Program NOBCChE's "Adopt-a-School" program involves local chapter members who visit an elementary school in the Rochester City School District twice weekly during working hours to teach elementary school pupils. Rochester NOBCChE is implementing comprehensive science and computer literacy programs in grades 3-5. NOBCChE members work with about 200 students weekly. Rochester NOBCChE thanks the college students for their donation. Special thanks go to Mr. Corky Wicks and Ms. Sharon Plaxico of Jackson State University, Jackson L to R: Carla Baily, Corky Wicks, l'lutiu fagbayi and Sharon Plaxico

Mississippi for initiating the idea among thier summer intern colleagues. Rochester NOBCChE also thanks the following donors:

A group of college students, who worked at the Eastman Kodak Company (Rochester,

Michelle Moore, Roch,, NY, Sheila Hill, Jackson, MS, Brenda Vorhauer, Webster, NY,

New York) last summer. made a donation of

Sharon Plaxico, Jackson, MS, Carla Baily,

$!OS to the Rochester Chapter of NOBCChE,

Niceville, Fla,, Walter Washington, Roch,, NY,

in support of the chapters four-year-old

Shelton James, Jackson, MS and Corky Wicks,

"Adopt-a-School" program. Rochester

Westpoint, MS.

Message From Chairman Five Year Strategic Plan Status by Clarence Tucker, Polenld Corp. The program activities of the S year strategic plan were enthusiastically received by the membership in attendance at our 14th Annual Meeting. Now, it is time to implement this plan. Overall coordination will be initially handled by me and Phillip Merchant. In order to administer the activities of the five major Focus areas, a program manager has been appointed. Each manager, along with committee members, will be responsible for implementing the program activities of each Focus area. A status report on the progress of each program will be made before and at our I 5th Annual meeting in Philadelphis, PA. The strategic plan is aggressive and a challenge. However, the purpose of this plan is to foster growth and elevate the organization to the next level in order to meet future needs. We need the participation and support of each member to make this

plan successful. Using your determination and resources, we can meet our goal. Mutiu Fagbayi has done an excellent job preparing the framework for our plan. We owe many THANKS to Mutiu for his hard work and dedication.

Program Managers for 5 Year Plan

'i< Financial Resources -

* * * *

Dr. Ed Gay, Argonne National Laboratories

Educational Initiatives - Dr. Phillip Merachant, Jr., National President National & International Affairs - Dr. Robert Shepard, Howard University Personal & Professional Development - Mrs. Rebecca Jackson, Martin Marietta Energy Systems Organizational Effectiveness - Dr. Victor Mccrary AT & T Bell Laboratories

.,J

4th Western Regional Meeting On Tap

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I. Circulation: Distribution of 1200 includes members, technical affiliates, plus department heads and administrators at institutions of higher teaming.

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The Western Region will hold its fourth annual meeting in Los Angeles, October 3031. The program will include technical presentations, professional development _seminars, and in-depth discussions on the region's long-range program. Program information will be mailed to members. Contact Robert Countryman if you have questions: (619) 293-6490. The Pacifica Hotel will be the

headquarters site for the meeting. Meeting rates for hotel accommodations are $62.00 (single. double. triple. or quad). plus 9% tax. For reservations. write or call the Pacifica Hotel, 6161 Centinella Ave., Culver City. CA 90230: (213) 649-1776. The deadline for reservations is October 16. Reservations will be held until 6:00 p.m. For later arrival times they will need to be guaranteed.

History of the Organization An Ad Hoc Committee for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers was organized in April 1972. The establishment of the committee was assisted financially by a grant of $850 provided by the Haas Community Fund, and a $400 grant administered through Drexel University. The commillee then surveyed black professionals lo ascertain their interest in the eslahlishmenl of a formal organization dedlcaled lo the professional advancemenl of black chcmlsh and chemical engineers. Enthuslasllc questionnaire responses prompted lhc committee to expand and reconvene In September 1972 to set up a struc:l urccl organization and to devise means or securing funds to finance ils clevelopmenl. In December 1973, the executive board met lo plan the first national meet Ing.

In March 1974, the first Annual Meeting of the NOBCChE was conducted in New Orleans. This national meeting provided a rare opportunity for black chemists and chemical engineers to discuss issues of significance to their careers, to present technical papers, and to formulate priorities ancl topics for future meetings and pronrams. l'ractical and theoretical goals began lo coalesce, ancl a national program was developed. Since 1974, national meet inflS have been on an annual basis. The <lff]anization was incorporated in 1975 under the laws of the State of Georgia ancl lias tax-exempt status as a non-profit professional society. The official name of the orfianlzalion Is The National Organization for the l'rol'essional Development of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers. The ol'flc:lal acronym Is NOBCChE.

Purpose and Objectives The National Organization for the Professional Advancement of Black Chemists and Chemical Engineers was established to develop and carry out programs to assist blacks in realizing their full potential in the fields of chemistry and chemical engineering. Black scientists comprise a very small percentage of the professionals in their respective disciplines. In spite of this acute underrepresentation of minorities in their ranks, national professional organizations representing technical personnel have not adequately addressed the particular needs and interests of their black colleagues. The organization's purpose is to maintain and supporl ref1ional programs which assist black scientists and engineers in fully realizing their academic: and/or

professional potential. introduce science and technology as viable professional goals to students on the elementary and high school levels, and encourage college students to pursue higher education in professional departments. NOBCChE objectives include recruitment and retention of blacks in science and engineering- related university programs, continued professional development of black scientists, and community involvement of professionals to provide essential role models within the black community. The organization depends upon existing talent among blacks in the fields of chemistry and chemical engineering to aid in the accomplishment of program objectives.