Chris’ Early Chemistry Education

Like so many scientists, my love of chemistry began in high school, thanks to the keen observations and encouragement of my high school chemistry teacher, Mr. Richard Welsh.

I entered Kalamazoo College committed to complete an ACS-accredited undergraduate program.  In my senior year of college, the excellent K College chemistry faculty, and especially Professors Tom Smith and Richard Cook, encouraged me (and many of my classmates) to apply for graduate programs.

I chose Princeton University and was fortunate to have an excellent Ph.D. advisor in Professor Martin Semmelhack.  I also formed a close relationship with Professor Ted Taylor–who would end up having a pivotal role in my future career development.