On Friday, September 29, 2006, the Department of Chemistry proudly honored these five leaders as 2006 Distinguished Alumni. We extend our congratulations and appreciation to each for the contributions they have made to our science, our communities, and the nation.

Sharon Marion D’Orsie
BS 1969
Founder, Eagle Environmental Services, Houston. Pioneer business woman and a dedicated and valued educator who returned recently to her first love - teaching high school chemistry

G. Michael Deeb, MD
BS 1971
Herbert Sloan Collegiate Professor, University of Michigan. Thoracic surgeon, former Director of Cardiac Surgery, and present Co-Director, Heart Care Program at the University of Michigan Medical Center

Joseph A. Gardella, Jr.
PhD 1981
Professor of Chemistry, SUNY Buffalo. Community and campus leader, outstanding teacher, and innovative scientist. Active in public service through the ACS, community education, and local government

Frederick S. Humphries
PhD 1964
Regent Professor, Florida A&M University. Former president of Florida A&M, former president of Tennessee State, continued service as a national leader in education

Costas G. Karakatsanis
BS 1974, PhD 1978
Former Director, Materials Characterization at Bayer MaterialScience.
Important contributor to the research enterprise at Bayer and a valued partner in Pittsburgh regional university- industrial relations