U.S. Rep. Vern Ehlers will deliver the first Arnold C. Ott Chemistry Lecture on Sept. 27 at 8 p.m. in the Loosemore Auditorium of the DeVos Center.
The lecture is the first in an endowed lecture series established through a donation from Dr. Arnold C. and Marion Ott. The once-a-semester lecture series is expected to draw prominent chemists from around the world, said chemistry department Chairman Harvey Nikkel.
Ehlers (R-Grand Rapids) represents the 3rd Congressional District and is a physicist by trade. He is the first research physicist in Congress, serving as Vice-Chairman of the Science Committee. After three years of studying at Calvin College, Ehlers received his undergraduate degree in physics and his Ph.D. in nuclear physics from the University of California at Berkeley. He moved to Calvin College in 1966 where he taught physics and later became chairman of the Physics Department.
Ott is a former GVSU trustee, serving on the board for 28 years, serving as chairman from 1978-84. He also holds a Ph.D. in chemistry, physics and bacteriology. He authored 55 patents while employed at Upjohn Co. and founded the Ott Chemical Co.
