One of the major private sources of funding for academic chemists in the United States is a foundation started at the bequest of Robert Alonzo Welch, a man who, ironically, didn't even finish elementary school. Despite his lack of formal education, Welch had an admiration for chemistry because of the discipline's contribution to his success (see story on page 27). Founded in 1954--two years after Welch's death--with $25 million allotted in his will, the Houston-based Welch Foundation now has assets of more than $280 million.
Norman Hackerman (Chairman), Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Chemistry and President Emeritus, William Marsh Rice University, Houston William O. Baker Elias J. Corey Peter B. Dervan Joseph L. Goldstein |