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Summer 2026 Newsletter

image of Omar Farha NU Chemistry department chair

This year, we had the privilege of celebrating four extraordinary members of our community, Brian Hoffman, Tobin Marks, Rick Silverman, and George Schatz, each of whom has dedicated more than five decades of service to Northwestern University and the Department of Chemistry. Their collective impact on our department is difficult to overstate. Through pioneering research, visionary leadership, exceptional teaching, and unwavering mentorship, they have helped shape the identity and trajectory of Northwestern Chemistry. Their discoveries have advanced science on a global scale, while their guidance has influenced generations of students, postdoctoral scholars, and faculty who continue to make meaningful contributions around the world. Our department gathering was more than a celebration of years of service; it was a recognition of a legacy built on excellence, curiosity, collaboration, and commitment to the academic mission. We are deeply grateful for all they have contributed to our department and university. Their achievements continue to inspire our community and serve as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact that dedicated scholars can have on science, education, and society.

Omar Farha, Department Chair

 

50 Years of Chemistry

At the department's April 27 50th Celebration, Northwestern Chemistry premiered a commemorative video featuring Brian Hoffman, Tobin Marks, Rick Silverman, and George Schatz. Hear their reflections on five decades of discovery, mentorship, and the evolution of the department, then visit our Faculty Spotlight section to watch additional interview footage not included in the original presentation.

 


 

Community Spotlights

Alumni Spotlight

Reflections on the extraordinary life of Mark A. Ratner, whose journey from Northwestern student to renowned faculty member left a lasting mark on the department.

Read Reflections of Mark Ratner

Student Spotlight

Discover how graduate student Madeline Ho advanced research in Brian Hoffman's lab.

Meet Madeline Ho

Staff Spotlight

Meet Pam Beck and learn about her 14 years of supporting Rick Silverman's research.

Meet Pam Beck

Departmental News

Read the Recent News

See Northwestern Chemistry's latest news and media coverage.

Recent Press

Department Events

Take a look back at the department's memorable events from the Winter and Spring quarters.

Winter/Spring Events

Faculty Honors

Discover accolades department faculty received during the Winter and Spring Quarters

Explore the Awards

Student Awards

Celebrate people within the department who have recently won awards

Explore Awards

Staff Promotions

See the talented staff are taking on new roles to strengthen the department.

Read More

From the Archives

Then and now: explore images of our celebrated faculty from their early years at Northwestern Chemistry.

See the Photos

Summer Named Lectures


Northwestern Chemistry Summer Named Lectures

Alumni and donors are invited to join the department for this summer’s named lecture series and experience firsthand the discoveries, ideas, and conversations shaping Northwestern Chemistry.

GET MORE INFORMATION ON THE 2026 NAMED LECTURE GUESTS